Thieves Targeting Purses At Ashburn Daycares: Police

ASHBURN, VA — Police have released surveillance still photos (above) of a man who stole purses from vehicles parked at a preschool Wednesday on Research Place, according to the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office. The suspect, described as wearing a white tank top and black shorts, was seen getting out of the rear passenger door of a black Audi crossover SUV with dark tinted windows.

Police say three vehicles in the past two weeks have been hit outside schools daycare facilities. A similar theft was reported Sept. 11 at a middle school on Gloucester Parkway. (For more local news, click here to sign up for real-time news alerts. Also, like us on Facebook, and if you have an iPhone, click here to get the free Patch iPhone app.) In both cases, windows were damaged to make entry.

Here are some words of caution from the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office:

• Ensure that your vehicle is locked and secured, even when running errands and dropping off children at day care centers or schools.

• Never leave your car unlocked when unattended, even if it is for a short time, and remove any valuables.

• Please remember to keep checks and identity documents securely with you or at home. Do not leave them in a vehicle where someone has a moment or chance to take them.

• If you have checks, money, credit cards, or identification taken from an unlocked vehicle, contact the Loudoun Sheriff’s Office and your bank immediately.

Anyone with any information regarding the possible identity of the suspect or the whereabouts of the suspect vehicle is asked to contact Det. M. Wealand at 571-209-7730.

Images via Loudoun County Sheriff's Office