Petaluma Theft Scam Suspects Still At Large, Police Warn Public

Petaluma CA

24 December, 2020

12:31 PM

Description

PETALUMA, CA — After two men attempted to scam and rob a woman at Washington Square Center, Petaluma police were advising the public to remain vigilant while out shopping this week. On Dec. 18, a woman had just gotten into her car after going to the bank at the center at 301 S. McDowell Blvd. around 6 p.m. when she heard a knock on her window, according to the Petaluma Police Department. The suspect, wearing a facemask, motioned to her that something was wrong with her tire. When she got out of the car and discovered numerous push pins under two tires, the suspect asked the victim if she wanted help dislodging them. While she was distracted, a second suspect emerged and had crouched on the passenger side of the vehicle. He attempted to open the door on the side of the car where her purse was sitting, but it was locked. A witness of the incident approached the victim and the two suspects fled on foot. "The Petaluma Police Department wants everyone to be aware of this scam and be vigilant especially during this busy time of year while shopping," police wrote in a Wednesday statement. Please be aware of your surroundings and be on the lookout for suspicious persons. Anyone with information about the scam is asked to contact the Petaluma Police Department at 707-778-4372.