‘Distracted theft’ crime ring targets unsuspecting shoppers

( NewsNation ) — Police in several states are warning shoppers of so-called “distraction thefts.”

Authorities have arrested at least one group of alleged thieves whose crime spree spanned multiple states before their arrest in Wisconsin.

Despite a 9% drop in larceny rates since before the pandemic, smaller shoplifting incidents have risen by 10%, according to the Council on Criminal Justice.

In a typical distraction theft, a seemingly innocent interaction, like someone asking you a question, can lead to a consumer’s purse being stolen while they’re distracted. Law enforcement notes that these crimes are increasing.

Police report that these criminals often work in groups of two or three, using tactics like distracting victims’ attention while another steals from their cart. These thieves are part of a larger, more organized network rather than local criminals.

Arrests were recently made in St. George, Utah after thieves stole and quickly charged thousands of dollars on victims’ cards. Authorities are tackling this issue by tracing these groups across state lines and pursuing strict penalties.

This tactic isn’t new; in southern California, thieves targeted elderly people wearing visible jewelry by approaching them for a hug and using the opportunity to steal their jewelry.

To protect themselves from distraction thefts, authorities advise consumers to stay aware of their surroundings, especially purses and wallets, if someone approaches them.

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