Photo: Westlake Police
After a String of Thefts from Purses at Crocker Park, Westlake Police would like you to watch and follow these tips to keep your stuff safe.
Date: 5/6/22 Capt. Jerry Vogel
Thefts from Purses at Crocker Park:
On 3/20/22 WPD took a report from a female who had been at Yard House Restaurant the evening before. Someone had taken the wallet out of her open purse and used her credit cards at a store in Sheffield Village.
On 3/31/22 WPD was called to American Eagle Outfitters at Crocker Park. An employee reported that a tall black male wearing a mask, beanie-type hat, and sunglasses just left the store after stealing a customer’s wallet from a purse in a fitting room. Officers searched the area but could not locate the described suspect.
On 4/22/22 WPD took a report from another female who also had her wallet lifted from her purse while she was in Yard House. The victim’s credit cards had already been used at stores at Crocker Park.
On 5/5/22 WPD was called to Trader Joes for another theft. The elderly victim reported that she had been shopping when a younger-looking female approached and distracted her by asking the victim to read ingredients off the label of a food product. It is believed while our victim was helping out this accomplice, another suspect used the opportunity to lift the woman’s wallet from her purse. The victim’s credit cards were almost immediately used at The Apple Store at Crocker Park.
Surveillance footage was collected of the suspects involved who appear unrelated except for targeting unattended purses. If you can identify any of these persons from the photos, please contact the Westlake PD at 440-871-3311.
This is a good time to remind people:
• Keep any bags or purses on your person. Do not leave these items unattended.
• Keep any bag or purse zipped and secured at all times. Be wary of slinging a purse over the back of a chair or bar stool at a restaurant/bar
• Minimize items taken into the store.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• If possible, shop with a friend or loved one.
• Watch out for each other, including other shoppers.
• Don’t be afraid to speak up if you notice someone following you.
• Don’t be afraid to contact store personnel or the local police department.