MISHAWAKA, Ind. - The Mishawaka Police Department is investigating several reports of victims' wallets being stolen from their purses and warning the public of what to do to keep it from happening to them.  

Victims told police that while in the store, they were confronted by one or two people who distracted them.

These victims didn't realize their wallet was missing until they went to check out or until their bank contacted them about suspicious activity.

Some victims said the suspects charged thousands of dollars to their credit cards.

To keep your items safe, police recommend the following:

Keep the strap of your purse on your shoulder or across your chest

Keep your purse zipped

Don't take your purse inside stores. Instead, tie a rubber band around your ID, cash, and credit cards and keep them in your pocket

Don't leave your purse unattended in your shopping cart

Pat attention to who is around you

Report any suspicious activity to the store manager and police