Police: Suspects bought $14,000 in gift cards with stolen car prowl items

UNIVERSITY PLACE, Wash. — Laid out on a table at the University Place Police Department were gift cards totaling more than $14,000. All were purchased with stolen credit cards taken by car prowlers working Chambers Bay.

“What they’re doing is breaking into a car, taking a purse. They go through the purse and throw it out the window on the way out,” said University Place police Officer Josh Mills. “All they grab out are credit cards.”

The entire haul came from one team working the parking lots earlier this month. Using punches to break car windows, they grab anything of value they can find. Investigators said the $14,000 in gift cards came from just two cars. Police said the suspects quickly took those stolen credit cards and purchased gift cards worth $100 to $200 apiece at nearby stores. Now they had readily accessible cash. In addition to all the gift cards one suspect had $5,000 in his pocket.

“It definitely shows either a level of experience or someone has taught them how to do it,” said Mills.

Chambers Bay is a popular spot for people to park then walk the miles of trails.  Some say it's hard to believe this spot can be popular with thieves, as well.

“Well I’m shocked,” said Anna Lewis, who was walking the trails Thursday. “I mean I come here all the time and I just can’t believe somebody is getting into our cars and stealing our stuff.”

Three men have been charged in connection with the thefts.

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