Watch CBS News

Police Probe Rash Of Robberies Outside Local Fitness Center

HEMPFIELD TOWNSHIP (KDKA) -- Police are investigating a rash of robberies outside a local fitness center in Westmoreland County.

The thefts are happening in broad daylight at the LA Fitness in Hempfield Township.

People are leaving their purses and credit cards in their car while they go in to workout only to find those items missing when they come back out.

In some cases, the car window is smashed; and in others, the car is left unlocked. But in all of the cases, valuables are taken.

"Lots of different stolen items such as purses, credit cards, debit cards, things of that nature," said Trooper Steve Limani, of Pennsylvania State Police.

There have been thefts reported on four days over the course of a week. On each of those days, numerous thefts.

"This was a very… like a rash of problems we've been having, just this particular location," said Trooper Limani. "Just the fact that it's in the middle of the day, smashing out windows, entering vehicles. I was amazed that someone didn't see him or catch him in the act."

But police did catch him using one of the stolen credit cards.

Many of the stolen cards have been used around town, but police on Thursday released surveillance video of the man inside of the Walmart in Hempfield Township just across Route 30 from the gym.

The man is spotted shopping for expensive electronics. He is also spotted trying to buy high-value gift cards at the register.

Police are hoping someone will recognize him and bring this crime spree to an end.

RELATED LINKS:
More Hempfield Township News
More Westmoreland County News

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.