Police search for man who allegedly stole wallets, purses from seniors

Police are looking for a man who they believe burglarized several low-income senior housing units in Glendale.

A resident of Casa de la Paloma on the 100 block of South Kenwood Street allowed the man to enter at about 6 a.m. Dec. 10 through a back door because he appeared to be a resident, according to Glendale police.

“He kind of looked like he fit in,” Glendale Police Det. Robert William said.

Once the man entered the housing facility, police said, he walked the halls and checked for unlocked doors, entering several unlocked apartments and stole purses and wallets, police said.

He remained in the housing facility for about an hour before fleeing through the main entrance, William said.

Later that morning, a security guard found several empty wallets and purses in a staircase and reported the thefts to police.

But by the time police were notified, several hours had passed and the man had left the area.

The man was described as Latino, 50 to 60 years old, five feet seven inches to five feet nine inches tall, weighing 180 to 200 pounds, with a mustache. He has gray and black hair and a receding hairline.

Calls to the housing facility weren’t returned on Tuesday.

Police have not been able to identify the victims because the wallets were almost empty. But they did find an identification card for a woman.

She told police that she was sleeping in her bedroom when the thief entered her home and stole her purse, which was in the living room, William said.

The woman left her door unlocked because she was expecting her caretaker, he added.

Residents didn’t lock their doors because they likely thought they were safe in the secured housing facility, William said.

“He’s picking on vulnerable people,” William added. “It’s scary.”

Police have talked to local transients and homeless service providers in an effort to find out more about the man, but have been unable to identify him.

Anyone with details about the burglaries or the man’s whereabouts may call William at (818) 548-2097. To remain anonymous, call the Glendale Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.