Thief Buys $5K Bicycle with Stolen Credit Card: Police

BETHESDA, MD — A man accused of using credit cards stolen from a woman's purse to ring up charges — including a $5,000 bicycle -- is being sought by Montgomery County Police.

The 71-year-old female victim was recently purchasing groceries at a Bethesda store when she realized that her wallet was no longer in her purse. Detectives say several credit cards from the victim’s wallet were used by the thief at various locations in Montgomery County, including stores in Rockville and Bethesda.

A total of about $6,100 was fraudulently charged to the victim’s stolen credit cards and additional charges were attempted, but declined, police say.

One of the stolen credit cards was used to buy a blue Santa Cruz bicycle (see manufacturer photo below) for about $5,000 in Bethesda.

Detectives obtained photographs of a suspect using the victim’s credit card and hope that someone recognizes the suspect or has more information about the thefts.

Anyone with information about this suspect or crime is asked to call police at 240-773-6700 or call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). Callers may remain anonymous.

»Photos of fraud suspect, $5,000 bike courtesy of Montgomery County Police