In a February news release, police advised citizens of a string of reported purse thefts taking place at grocery stores across the city. In each instance, the suspects reportedly waited until the shopper was distracted or away from their shopping cart or vehicle, and then removed their purse or wallet from the grocery cart or the passenger seat of an unlocked car. The thieves then often used the IDs and credit cards in the purses and wallets to make fraudulent purchases.
On Friday, Nov. 2, 2018, detectives arrested and charged two male suspects after they reportedly stole a purse from a 75-year-old female while her vehicle was parked in a grocery store parking lot in the area of Calgary Trial and 48 Ave, and then used her credit card to make a fraudulent purchase a short time later.
Dennis Dalziel, 49, and James Paquette, 48, arenow facing 49 theft and fraud related charges linked to incidents from May to October 2018. These charges include: theft under $5,000, possession of stolen property, fraud and breach of recognizance. Dalziel is also facing an additional 61 fraud and theft related charges linked to incidents from January to May of this year.
“We are thrilled that we were able to apprehend these suspects and prevent further thefts and frauds to unsuspecting shoppers,” says Det. Michael Healey with EPS West Division Criminal Investigations Section.
As the holiday season approaches, police continue to remind shoppers to remain aware of their surroundings and possessions and report any suspicious activity to police.
Citizens who are victims of theft or notice suspicious activity while shopping can contact the EPS by calling the complaint line at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.