Md. police release photo of suspect in bathtub theft

BETHESDA, Md. — Police need your help to pull the plug on a bathtub bamboozle.

When a man tried to buy a $13,000 bathtub on sale for $6,700 at Union Hardware in Bethesda last week, his credit card was initially declined.

Montgomery County Police say the man then made a call on his cellphone and told a store employee that he had called his bank to help fix the situation.

The employee took the phone, followed some over-the-phone instructions, and a receipt printed out, making it seem like the charge had gone through.

Police say the man loaded the tub into a U-Haul truck with a waiting driver, and they drove off.

Soon after, the store got a call from its bank saying the credit card had been fraudulent.

The suspect who came into the store was caught on camera, and police are hoping someone can help identify him.

If you recognize the man, you’re asked to call police at 240-773-6710.

You can also provide an anonymous tip by calling Crime Solvers of Montgomery County at 240-773-TIPS (8477), or by texting MCPD and your crime tip to CRIMES (274637).

If your Crime Solvers tip leads to an arrest or indictment, you could be eligible for a reward of up to $10,000.

Michelle Basch

Michelle Basch is a reporter turned morning anchor at WTOP News.

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