An elderly man in Portland, Oregon, had a distressing experience when he became the target of a pickpocketing scheme outside a grocery store. The 93-year-old had just finished his grocery shopping and was wheeling his cart to his car when a thief managed to snatch his wallet from his back pocket. The incident, captured on surveillance video, reveals a calculated plan executed by three men who subsequently used the stolen credit cards to purchase hundreds of dollars worth of gift cards at a Fred Meyer Supermarket.
The video footage shows the elderly man feeling something amiss and checking his pocket, turning his head to the left but failing to notice the three suspects on his right. The swift and sneaky operation allowed the thieves to complete their act without immediate detection. Once the wallet was secured, the trio dispersed.
In the recorded footage, the main perpetrator is seen grabbing the wallet while his accomplices follow nearby, seeming to create a diversion if caught. One man wraps his arm around the other, mimicking a father and son walking together, further distracting attention from their criminal activity. This coordinated effort underscores the sophistication of their scheme.
The Portland police have identified that this group attempted their tactic on other unsuspecting shoppers as well. They suspect there may be more victims who have not yet come forward. Investigators believe these individuals have likely perpetrated similar crimes throughout the Seattle area, indicating a broader pattern of theft.
Authorities urge anyone who may have experienced a similar incident or has information about the suspects to contact the police. They also recommend that shoppers remain vigilant about their surroundings and personal belongings, especially in crowded areas where such crimes are more likely to occur.
More from LittleThings: Judge Appalled By Suspended License Defendant Who Joins Zoom Court Call While Driving
The elderly victim’s ordeal is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of older individuals to such crimes. It highlights the importance of community awareness and the need for protective measures to safeguard against theft. The overall aim is to ensure that justice is served and that measures are put in place to protect others from falling victim to such criminal acts.
To view more of the story, click the video.
