Authorities warn of possible pickpocket in Orange County

WESTMINSTER, Calif. (KABC) -- Orange County authorities issued a warning about a pickpocket targeting unsuspecting victims at retail stores in the area.

Police are looking for a woman suspected of pickpocketing at several businesses in the county.

"They're waiting until they're distracted and then trying to take their purse or any other valuables," Westminster police Cmdr. Cameron Knauerhaze said.

A woman, who asked not be identified, believes her boyfriend's mother was a victim. She was shopping with her husband at a market in Garden Grove on Jan. 8. She said when the couple went to pay at the register, her wallet was gone.

She posted information on social media and said more people came forward.

"People have been private messaging me and sharing it and saying, 'Hey, this happened to me. This happened to my mom,'" she said.

She also believes elderly women are being targeted by the pickpocket.

Police are following several leads, thanks in part to social media posts, and they are urging the public to be more cautious.

"It's disturbing just how quick these predators prey on victims. We urge members of the public to always keep your purse next to you, keep it zipped up," Knauerhaze said.

Anyone with more information is asked to call the Westminster Police Department.