Man Wanted After Tricking Workers Out Of Cash In Huntington Station, Dix Hills

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — Police are asking for the public’s help locating a Shirley man wanted in connection with two “quick change” thefts targeting local businesses, police said.

41-year-old Louis Pagano is wanted for two sleight-of-hand larcenies that occurred in January and March, according to police.

Police said the first incident happened Jan. 3 at Urban Air Adventure Park in Dix Hills.

Investigators said Pagano asked an employee to break two $100 bills into smaller denominations.

While distracting the employee with conversation, police said he slipped some of the returned cash into his pocket before claiming he had received the wrong amount of change, resulting in an $80 loss to the business.

The second incident occurred on March 20 at Deli Pupuseria Salvadorena in Huntington Station, police said. Investigators said Pagano bought a beer and, after receiving change, distracted an employee while quickly pocketing $40 before claiming he had been shorted. The employee then handed him an additional $40, police said.

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 1-800-220-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted through the P3 Tips mobile app or online at P3 Tips.