Investigating Detectives Increase Nickname of Baby Stroller Bandits

Names Now Include “Mini Mall Bandits” and “Beauty Salon Bandits.”UPDATED INFORMATION

Los Angeles:  On June, 9, 2011, detectives received several tips after publicizing the faces of two women caught on video stealing wallets out of baby strollers.  The tips identified both women by name:  Bertha Dona Vargas, 55, of West Covina; and 51-year-old Norma Lizette Reyes, a resident of Los Angeles.  For reference, suspect Reyes also goes by the name of Guadalupe Castro.  Today, the detectives are also referring to the suspects as the: “Mini Mall Bandits” and “Beauty Salon Bandits.”

Investigators have learned that suspect Reyes enters a store, beauty salon or mini mall with a partner.  She, or the partner will distract the store keeper or hair stylist, reach for their purse or wallet and place the stolen property under her long dress. The suspects would then leave the location.

To date, Reyes is wanted for six felony counts of burglary. One burglary took place in LAPD’s Central Division, the other five in Rampart Division.  The value amount of the property stolen from the victims is not known and detectives are eager to locate the thieves who are still outstanding. 

The men and women of the Los Angeles Police Department would like to remind the public to lock, hide and keep your personal items out of public view and to always be aware of your surroundings.

Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call Detective Elder at 213-484-3487, or  Detective Mike Mazzacano at 213-972-1231.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters can also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to www.LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.