Credit Card Theft Caught on Camera

Pittston Township, Luzerne County--Take a look at this surveillance video from Wal-Mart in Pittston Township.

It's a big time crime that happens in a heartbeat.

Trooper Jerome Yeninas, PSP Wyoming, says, "These people practice this so in the blink of an eye a turn you may have dropped something, they may have dropped something and you could be distracted and boom you're missing your credit card, your wallet."

That's exactly what happened Saturday afternoon. .a pair of thieves plotting their next grab.

You can see the female accomplice distracting the victim just long enough for the man to reach into her purse and steal her credit card.

Then only about 10 minutes later, the female accomplice buys 500 dollars worth of Wal-Mart gift cards with the stolen card.

500 dollars lost in the blink of an eye... and it's an eye-opener for area shoppers.

Sue Williams, Albrightsville, says, "I think it should wake us up and help us watch our purses more. I probably from now on will probably carry it instead of putting it in the front seat."         

Police say this could happen to anyone anywhere and so they offer tips to keep safe.         

For one, keep your purse zipped up or closed when you're not using it and carry it close to you if possible.

If your card does get stolen, call your bank right away and let them know. Also call your local police department.

It's an unexpected event that unfortunately happens all too often.

Lynn Corcoran, Laurel Run, says, "I think it's crazy.  I think that people shouldn't have to worry about that but i guess you have to anymore."