Beware Of Distract-And-Grab Shopping Thefts, Brick Police Warn

BRICK, NJ — Brick Township police are warning shoppers to protect their purses and bags following reports of wallets being stolen while the victims are distracted in stores.

In the theft schemes, a stranger approaches the victim and distracts the shopper by asking for help or starting a conversation. While the victim is distracted, a second person opens the victim’s purse and steals the credit cards, money or a wallet out of the purse.

Subscribe

“Please be aware of your surroundings,” police said in the warning.

“Do not leave your purse or valuables unattended in your shopping cart. Consider using a crossover purse when you go shopping,” police said.