LAPD Searching for Distraction Theft Suspects Targeting Elderly

Suspects have been spotted throughout Southern California attempting to steal debit cards and cash from vulnerable victims

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Los Angeles Police Department is searching for two men accused of carrying out a distraction theft scheme that has targeted elderly victims across Southern California. The suspects have been spotted attempting to steal debit cards and cash by distracting victims and watching them input their PIN numbers.

Why it matters

Distraction thefts targeting the elderly are a growing concern, as these vulnerable victims can suffer significant financial and emotional harm. The LAPD is working to track down the suspects and warn the public about these predatory tactics.

The details

In one recent incident in San Pedro, investigators said one suspect distracted a victim by dropping cash while the other watched the person enter their PIN. The suspects then followed the victim to the parking lot and somehow stole the debit card, rushing to a bank to withdraw money. The LAPD has also released photos of a separate distraction theft scheme involving an elderly victim at an ATM.

  • The suspects were recently spotted in San Pedro on March 3, 2026 attempting to carry out the scheme.

The players

LAPD

The Los Angeles Police Department is leading the investigation and search for the distraction theft suspects.

Distraction Theft Suspects

Two unidentified men who have been targeting elderly victims throughout Southern California in a debit card and cash theft scheme.

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What’s next

The LAPD is working with several local law enforcement agencies to track down the suspects in both instances of the distraction theft scheme.

The takeaway

Elderly residents in Southern California should be on high alert for distraction theft tactics and take steps to protect themselves, such as being cautious when using ATMs or making purchases and keeping a close eye on their debit cards and cash.