Police: Find International Suspects – Quick Change Artists, Jewelry Thieves
Police are asking for help from the public finding several people wanted for questioning in connection with several scams in the New York.
The suspects are accused of conducting quick change scams and sleight of hand jewelry thefts. The New York State Police says that the individuals identified are suspected of being a part of a Roma organized crime group that travels around the world.
At least four incidents have been documented in Western and Central New York. All took place at businesses that are located near an interstate roadway.
In a quick change scam the purchaser attempts to confuse a cashier - usually an inexperienced one - by distracting him or her while paying for a small items with a large bill.
Police say the man pictured below (with the pouch circled) allegedly purchased electronic items from Walmart and, during the transaction, "...confused
the employee while paying for the item by telling them he wanted the change in a different way and stole $1,600 in each transaction. The males were seen leaving in a black Chrysler minivan."
The suspects allegedly targeted a Walmart in Erie County located at 3290 Sheridan Drive on January 25, 2022 at approximately 11:30am and on January 26, 2022 at approximately 8:30pm.