Suspects accused of stealing debit card, draining account in alleged LA distraction theft scheme

LOS ANGELES -- The Los Angeles Police Department is asking for the public's help identifying two men accused of stealing from seniors in what was described as a "distraction ID theft scheme."



Police said the men were seen watching a victim enter a PIN number at a business. According to investigators, the pair then dropped money on the ground and tapped the victim on the shoulder to create a distraction.

During that moment, a second suspect attempted to steal the victim's debit card.

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When the attempt inside the business failed, police said the men followed the victim into the parking lot and stole the card there. The victim's bank account was later drained.



Authorities released images of the suspects and urged anyone who recognizes the men to contact police.