Uptick In Distracted Shopper Thefts, OCSD Says

DANA POINT, CA — Shoppers have a great deal on their minds these days, amid the coronavirus pandemic. Put the mask on, sanitize the cart, shop the list, and get back home with the groceries.

While we shop, anxiety is high, and at times, even the most reasonable shopper becomes scattered and distracted.

According to the Orange County Sheriff's Department, distracted thefts are at an all-time high at markets across Orange County.

Recently, the Orange County Sheriff's Department has seen a rash of wallet and personal property thefts from shopping carts, pulled from unsuspecting victims' purses. In all cases, they are distracted.

The above two instances, both of which occurred recently in Dana Point, show how each "lift" occurs.

In each case, the victims are followed through a store until the theft opportunity presents itself. In the first video, a solo theft occurs.

"In the second video, with two suspects, two women were in the store for roughly 35 seconds," Breckner tells Patch.

Both took place in the produce section.

"One runs the block while the other lifts," Breckner says of the method.

Most of the time, the victim doesn't realize their wallet has vanished until they arrive at the checkout stand, often up to a half-hour after the theft.

"We would like members of the public to remain vigilant as investigators have seen an increase in thefts from distracted shoppers," Sgt. Breckner tells Patch.

Though these incidents occurred in Dana Point, the types of thefts are happening county-wide, he says. The only way to not become a victim is to be aware of your surroundings.

What should you do if you find your wallet stolen?

• Report to the local jurisdiction
• Start canceling your credit cards right away.
• Call Equifax or credit reporting company to place a fraud alert on your social security number.

Calling a credit reporting company to report the fraud alert makes it all the more difficult for a thief to make use of your identity, Breckner says.

One way to avoid such thefts is to maintain control of your personal property while shopping.

A purse lopped into the shopping basket becomes a target for theft. When it's left unzipped, it is even more so.

"If you are unable to maintain personal control of your property, consider zipping your purse closed and use the strap or a clip to secure it to the cart," Breckner says. "Thefts of this nature tend to occur at grocery stores, home improvement stores, drug stores, and membership warehouses."

In addition to thefts from purses, property crimes are on the rise county-wide.

"As a reminder, set car alarms, secure vehicles, do not leave any property of value in vehicles, and never leave anything visible that may be enticing to thieves," Breckner says. "The Orange County Sheriff's Department will continue to be vigilant in safeguarding our community."

Have you ever been the victim of such a theft? Patch wants to know your experiences! Tell us in comments or share with us by emailing your Patch Editor.