Detectives search for men who stole woman's wallet

Palm Coast Observer
News

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Investigative Services Division is investigating a theft that occurred in the parking lot of the Palm Harbor Shopping Center Publix April 28.

The victim, an elderly woman, went shopping at Publix around noon and had just placed her groceries in her car near the store's entrance when a man walked up to her and asked for directions.

Then a second person approached her, and she lost sight of him. But she believes that second person must have been the one who stole her wallet out of her purse, which was slung over her shoulder.

The investigation revealed that her credit card was used at a CVS and Publix on Palm Coast Parkway NE in Palm Coast after it was stolen.

“This is an active investigation and one we are taking seriously," Sheriff James L. Manfre said. "These individuals took advantage of an unsuspecting elderly woman by deliberately distracting her."

The two men in this case were described as African American. One of the men has long dread locks, and the second was described as having a shaved head.

The Sheriff's Office has asked nyone with information to call the FCSO at 313-4911 in reference to case number 2015-44692 or to call Crime Stoppers at 888-277-8477. Crime Stoppers callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

The Sheriff's Office suggests following a few simple steps to prevent shopping crime:

Only carry a minimal amount of credit cards and cash while shopping.
Do not carry your Social Security card or PIN numbers in your wallet or purse.
Keep your purse zipped up or closed and never leave it unattended in a shopping cart.
When possible, walk to your car with someone or ask a store employee to walk with you to your car, especially after dark. Be cautious of anyone who unexpectedly approaches you.
Report all suspicious incidents to law enforcement.