Suspects sought for allegedly stealing wallets at 2 Tustin shopping malls

TUSTIN, Calif. (KABC) -- Authorities are searching for two men suspected of stealing people's wallets from several stores in two shopping centers in Tustin.

Police said most of the thefts happened at the TJ Maxx at the Marketplace and District shopping centers, as well as Costco, Union Market and Panera Bread in the District and Make It Fit in the Marketplace.

"The victims have been females, and most of them haven't seen the suspect. This has occurred six times since Saturday, the 16th, to yesterday," Lt. Robert Wright said.

Authorities believe the suspects grabbed the wallets out of purses in shopping carts or hanging on chairs in the stores. On Tuesday, they said the men approached a woman in the parking lot during the day.

One suspect told the woman she dropped something on the floor while she was loading her groceries. When the woman looked down, authorities believe one of the men grabbed her wallet out of the car.

Authorities have surveillance photos taken after the men tried to use a stolen credit card at the Target in the District.

The public is encouraged to keep their belongings close to them at all times. Anyone with more information on the crimes is urged to call the Tustin Police Department at (714) 573-3200.