FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 3, 2008

CONTACT: Ofc. Matt Barnett
Police_pio@glendaleaz.com
(602) 590-5733

Police Seeking Flim-Flam Artists

The Glendale Police Department is asking for help in identifying two “flim-flam” suspects who scammed a local cashier out of almost $500.00. Investigators also want to warn businesses to be on the lookout for this type of activity.

Just after 3:00 p.m. on June 16th, two suspects entered the Wal Mart neighborhood market in the 6600 block of west Peoria Avenue. The two men, in succession, bought an inexpensive item, paid for it with a large bill and then proceeded to confuse the clerk, repeatedly asking for different change while making other comments to distract her, causing her to lose her focus. The two men eventually left. The clerk’s cash drawer was ultimately short almost $500.00.

The suspects were described as black males and arrived in a dark colored van. Images of the suspects and their maneuvers were captured as they entered the store, and also from overhead at the clerk’s counter. Investigators hope that someone will be able to identify the suspects.

Fraud detectives would like to remind cashiers to stay focused, and to remember training about how to avoid being scammed. “Techniques like placing the bill laterally on the cash drawer are good,” said Detective Harry Steward. “Also, don’t be afraid to take charge and stop a person from distracting you. If they persist, just stop what you are doing, wait for them to stop. You may also want to call a supervisor to assist, and remember, you don’t have any obligation to make different change three or four times,” he said.

Anyone with information about these suspects is asked to call the Glendale Police at 623-930-3000.