SMPD Warns About Couple Targeting the Elderly With Jewelry Thefts

Santa Monica Police say that they are investigating a series of thefts where the suspects are targeting elderly residents. The thefts are of jewelry from people's arms or fingers. Police warned the elderly not to approach strange vehicles, and to be aware of suspicious persons when they are out on a walk

"In each of the reported incidents in Santa Monica, a female suspect calls out to the victim from a parked car asking for directions or assistance in an effort to get the victim to come close enough to touch or grab them," says a press release from Lt. Rudy Flores.

"The suspect then puts a piece of fake jewelry on the victim, while stealthily removing their expensive jewelry, before fleeing in a getaway vehicle, which is usually driven by a male suspect."

"Two similar incidents near the 500-600 Block of Ocean Avenue were reported on Saturday, February 13th and Wednesday, February 17th.

The SMPD released the following descriptions:

Suspect #1 Passenger – Female, Middle Eastern or White, between 40-60 years old with dark or brown hair.

Suspect #2 Passenger – Female, potentially White, mid-40s with dark hair. May be wearing a scarf covering her hair.

Suspect #3 Driver – Male, potentially White, mid-40's with dark hair.

Targeted Victims: Elderly women walking alone during the early afternoon between

1:00pm and 3:00pm.

The Santa Monica Police Department reminded residents to "never approach a strange vehicle and continue to report suspicious behavior."

"If you or someone you know believes they have been a victim of a similar crime, please contact Detective David Haro from the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) of the Santa Monica Police Department at (310) 458-8432 or the Watch Commander (24 hours) at 310-458-8427."