Help sought in identifying thieves at REI
Authorities are seeking the public’s help in identifying two people who police believe stole $4,280 worth of sports watches from a Huntington Beach recreational equipment store.
A man and woman entered the REI store at Bella Terra, 777 Edinger Ave., at about 4 p.m. March 9, and the woman pried open a display case containing Garmin watches with an unknown tool, Huntington Beach police said in a news release.
Meanwhile, her male accomplice concealed what she was doing with a jacket he was holding, the release said.
The pair stole nine Garmin watches, which the woman concealed in her dress, police said.
The store did not file a report until late April after it reviewed video surveillance footage, saw the activity and learned that a nearly identical crime was committed at the REI store in Tustin, said Jennifer Marlatt, public information officer with the Huntington Beach Police Department.
Police described the woman as white, 31 to 40 years old, of average height and with a large build, dyed blond hair and blue eyes. She was seen in the video footage wearing a blue dress, black leggings, a turquoise T-shirt under her dress and dark framed glasses.
The man was described as possibly Eastern European, in his late 40s to early 50s, of average heights and medium build, and with brown eyes and black hair. He seen in the video footage wearing a white, button-down shirt, black slacks, tennis shoes and dark framed glasses.
Police are asking anyone with information to call the Huntington Beach Police hotline at (714) 375-5066.
Twitter: @BrittanyWoolsey
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