Police say the incident began on Nov. 11 when a female victim at Panera Bread on Route 73 hung her purse on the back of her chair.
The following information is on file with the Evesham Township Police Department:
On Nov. 11, a female victim was having lunch at Panera Bread, 500 S. Route 73, when she hung her purse on the back of her chair.
When the victim returned home, police say she realized that her wallet had been stolen from her purse.
According to police, she immediately contacted her credit card companies and found that $1,500 had already been charged to her credit cards.
Police say suspects were seen leaving the area possibly in a white mini van with unknown registration.
If anyone knows the identity of these suspects, they are asked to contact the Evesham Police Department at (856) 983–1116, the Confidential Tip Line at (856) 983–4699 or email at Facebook@Eveshampd.org. Anonymous tips can text ETPDTIP to 847411.
During the holiday season, Evesham Police say it is common for the department to see an increase in crimes around shopping centers.
Police ask residents to keep in mind the following simple safety tips to keep their holiday shopping safe and enjoyable.
- Store gift packages out of view or keep them in the trunks of vehicles
- Don’t flash large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
- Carry purses close to the body, not dangling by the straps. Keep wallets or cash in an inside pocket, not a back pocket.
- Do not hang purses on the back of a chair while eating at a restaurant or leave them unattended inside a shopping cart.
- Beware of strangers approaching for any reason. At this time of year, con artists may try various methods of distracting individuals with the intention of taking money or belongings.
Immediately report all suspicious activity to the ETPD at (856) 983–1111 or 911.
