Santa Clarita Valley detectives are seeking two suspects who are accused of stealing wallets from purses at Trader Joe’s and then buying gift cards at Target.

The thefts were reported around 1:30 p.m. Sept. 4, according to Sheriff’s Station reports.

The suspect’s vehicle

Detectives later discovered the victims’ credit cards were used at the Target in Golden Valley shortly after the wallets were stolen from the shopping market, according to deputies. The amount of the theft was not immediately available, according to officials.

Det. Jason Jones cautioned Santa Clarita Valley residents “not to leave their purses unattended in shopping carts, and to make sure, if possible, the purse is closed unless it’s being used,” in an effort to prevent future, similar thefts.

“The problem that happens is when the victims turn their backs,” said Shirley Miller, Sheriff’s Station spokeswoman, “their wallets are visibile and it’s easy for the purse to be taken.”

There are at least three victims associated with these thefts, according to deputies.

The suspects were captured on surveillance after purchasing the gift cards with the victims’ cards at Target.

They were seen leaving the location in a small, red vehicle, perhaps a Toyota Fit or a Honda. 

Anyone with information about the suspects or thefts is asked to call Jones at 661-255-1121 ext. 5811.

If someone would like to report the crime anonymously, they can contact lacrimestoppers.org, and use the file no. 916-11968-0635-112.