JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. (KMGH) -- Police in Colorado say a couple accused of using stolen credit cards to rack up thousands of dollars in fraudulent charges had no problem bringing two young kids along.
"People using their children to shoplift, it's not something we see a lot of, but it's always very disappointing," said Mark Techmeyer, a spokesperson with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office.
Deputies said the unidentified couple stole a purse from a woman's car that was unlocked in the parking lot at Fairmont Elementary School in Lakewood. It happened on Sept. 15 around 3:30 p.m. local time.
Within minutes of stealing the purse, investigators said the suspects began using the victim's credit cards.
"It happens very fast because they know the cards get canceled really quick," Techmeyer said.
Deputies said the couple used the stolen cards to go on a three-day spending spree, fraudulently buying liquor, clothes, electronics, gas and food.
Surveillance photos from a Kohl's store in Arvada showed the couple's two young kids with them as they checked out. In one of the photos, one of the kids is holding a shopping bag.
"It's a deplorable act," Techmeyer said.
The duo with kids in tow then hit Mile High Wine Cellars, a liquor store next door.
Owner Mark Crowder said their receipt for charges included Angry Orchard Cider, Ciroc Vodka, and expensive Cognac.
"She reported it stolen and then the charges continued," Techmeyer explained.
Investigators said an error with the bank allowed the couple to keep using the stolen cards over three days, racking up nearly $7,000 in fraudulent charges.
Police are now hoping someone recognizes the couple in the surveillance photos.
"If there are any other charges that may surround having the children with them while they committed these acts is yet to be determined," Techmeyer said.
