Cameras catch couple stealing wallets in Aventura, Pinecrest and Gables grocery stores

Aventura and Pinecrest police are asking for help in identifying a couple caught on surveillance cameras stealing wallets in grocery stores in Aventura, Pinecrest and Coral Gables.

In each case, a female shopper left her purse unattended while searching the shelves. A woman then distracted the shopper while a man quickly took the wallet from her purse. Surveillance cameras caught the couple in the act on three different occasions in Publix and Whole Foods stores.

Aventura police Sgt. Chris Goranitis said Aventura police believe the couple are a husband and wife. He also said the couple is working with others to commit fraud with the stolen credit cards. On one occasion, a third party attempted to make a $2,500 purchase at Target with one of the stolen cards.

The police are asking the public for help in identifying the couple. “Anybody that recognizes anyone in these pictures should definitely come forward and help us identify who they are,” Goranitis said.

Goranitis said Aventura police believe the couple has committed similar thefts around South Florida and advise shoppers to use caution with their belongings.

“Don’t leave your purses unattended in shopping carts,” Goranitis said. “And make sure you know who’s around you.”

Miami Herald staff writer Carli Teproff contributed to this report.

This story was originally published June 15, 2015 at 8:32 PM with the headline "Cameras catch couple stealing wallets in Aventura, Pinecrest and Gables grocery stores."