Thieves are targeting cars parked near the C & O Canal in Potomac, stealing wallets and purses and using the credit cards to run up charges at pharmacies and grocery stores, Montgomery County Council Vice President Roger Berliner said.
The thieves typically strike during the day in parking lots along the 10800 block of MacArthur Boulevard, he said. The car owners are typically walking or kayaking at the time.
Most of the thefts, which started in March, have been between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Berliner said.
Police have identified a suspect who uses the credit cards at CVS pharmacies and Giant grocery stores in Virginia and Maryland.
The suspect is in his early 30s and has a heavy build and mustache. He is either a light-skinned black male or white.
Anyone with information should call Montgomery County police at 240-773-6084.
— Freeman Klopott
