Elderly Targeted By Thieves At Local Hospitals: Police

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA—Fairfax County Police are seeking unknown thieves targeting the elderly at local hospitals and doctors' offices.

Police say the suspects distract the elderly victims while another pickpockets them. The suspects strike as the elderly patients are entering or exiting the medical centers. Investigations show the suspects take the stolen credit cards and immediately make purchases at local department stores.

Officer Kent Bailey told Patch the incidents have happened at large medical facilities and doctors' offices around the county.

Police offer the following tips to help residents avoid becoming victims to pickpocketers:

• Keep all your personal items in your front pockets
• Zip, fasten, and close your purse
• Report any suspicious people or events
• Make sure your elderly loved ones are accompanied by a trusted family member or friend

Police have provided surveillance images of the suspects. Anyone with information about the suspects or incidents should call Detective Pleva at 703-644-7377.

Images via Fairfax County Police