Franklin police issue warning about grocery store thefts

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (WKRN) — Franklin police said they were investigating several distraction thefts at area grocery stores and have urged caution to shoppers.

In a post to X, formerly Twitter, the department explained that individuals have reportedly engaged in conversations with shoppers. As the shopper is distracted, someone else takes the wallet from the shopper’s purse. Franklin police added any credit cards stolen during the heist are typically used shortly after the initial theft.

In a video attached to the post, Officer Ryan Howell explained that shoppers should stay vigilant.

“Zip up your purse, buckle your purse, because the problem is we tend to leave our purses open because we’re using it, right?” Howell said. “Zip it. Lock it. Make sure that it’s completely secure. But also know what’s in your wallet. Know what credit cards are in your wallet. It’s imperative to know how many credit cards you have and what exactly is in the wallet if this does happen to you and you do become a victim.”

Howell also advised if you find your cards stolen, you should cancel or deactivate them as quickly as possible.

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