Serial Wallet Snatchers Victimize Elderly At Ladera Ranch Grocery Stores: OCSD

LADERA RANCH, CA — It was just before Christmas when multiple elderly victims shopping in Ladera Ranch grocery stores and Home Goods were robbed of their purses and wallets, according to Orange County Sheriff's Department Lt. Mark Stichter.

On December 15 a tag-team of two theft suspects, both seen wearing blue scrubs and dark jackets, were recorded on store surveillance video targeting victims shopping in the 27000 block of Antonio Parkway, Stichter said.

"One victim was in a wheelchair while her husband followed behind, pushing a shopping cart," Stichter said.

The first victim's purse was in the shopping cart when a male suspect who was seen wearing medical scrubs was recorded on video surveillance stealing the victim's wallet.

A short time later that credit card was used to make purchases in both Ladera Ranch and San Juan Capistrano according to Stichter.

On December 30, the same two suspects were seen on surveillance footage entering Ralph's grocery store in the 32000 block of Golden Lantern in Dana Point.

The couple was seen targeting an elderly female victim who turned her back on her purse to hunt for produce according to the report.

"The male suspect, again wearing medical scrubs, reached into the victim's purse and stole her wallet," Stichter said. "Footage shows multiple failed attempts on other prospective victims."

These two suspects are believed to have victimized other shoppers in both Central and Southern California according to Stichter.

"Anyone with information on these suspects is encouraged to contact Orange County Sheriff's Investigators at 714-628-7170," he said.

Anonymous tips can be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS (855-847-6227).

Orange County Sheriff's Department photos.