Marlborough Has Been Target Of New Theft Groups, Police Warn

MARLBOROUGH, MA — Marlborough has been targeted by thieves who pull credit cards out of open bags when the owners aren't looking, according to police.

On Friday, Marlborough police said the city — along with others in Massachusetts — has been the site of theft incidents where thieves reach into bags and purses in places like coffee shops and restaurants.

"They look for handbags hanging on chairs and strategically position themselves close by. When the opportunity strikes, the suspect will slowly reach into the handbag and remove your wallet. From there, they’ll take your credit cards and carefully place the wallet back into the handbag," police said in a Facebook post.

The thefts are typically followed by a shopping spree, police said.

"If you’re at one of these establishments, or out in public, always keep your handbags/wallets close by in view. If you have elderly friends and/or family, please remind them of this," police said.