WASHINGTON – Ladies be warned: leaving your purse on the back of the chair while eating in a restaurant can invite unwanted attention to your wallet.
Detectives in Montgomery County are still investigating a suspected pickpocket at the Sol D’Italia restaurant in the Layhill Shopping Center on Oct. 20.
The victim told police her wallet was lifted from her purse, which was at the back of her chair. She didn’t notice the wallet was gone until she returned home.
Since then, the unknown pickpocket has used the victim’s credit cards to charge approximately $800 at CVS stores in Aspen Hill and Rockville, Md.
Police say individuals can avoid these blatant burglaries by keeping their purses or other personal items on their laps or between their feet on the floor. When shopping, maintain visual contact with personal items and make sure purses are fastened shut and pockets zippered.
Detectives have obtained photographs of the suspect from restaurant surveillance and are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying him. Anyone with information is asked to call 4th District Petty Crimes detectives at 240-773-5476.
Those who wish to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers of Montgomery County, toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS(8477).
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