By Stella Inger
KPSP Local 2 News

Investigators are on the lookout tonight for three people suspected of distracting an elderly woman and then stealing from her. It  happened at a La Quinta Target in June and police have released surveillance video to help catch the suspects.

Police say the video shows a 69-year-old woman shopping, minding her own business when suddenly two Hispanic men approach her. One of them manages to distract her while the other snatches her wallet out of her purse and puts in his backpack. Police say the victims wallet is then given to a third person, a female who apparently uses the victims credit card at the store.

"It's horrible! absolutely horrible ! You don't take advantage of any age especially the elderly," said Dena Bayne, an Indio resident.  

Police say the three suspects didn't stop there. After target they headed to two high-end electronic stores in the area where they used the victims credit cards. Sergeant Jorge Pinon with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department says he's noticed that thieves are targeting the elderly more and more these days in the valley.

"The elderly are being targeted because they usually carry large amounts of money. They also carry credit cards and travel by themselves. So it's an easy target and an easy prey for these individuals doing these types of thefts," said Pinon.

Police say there are things you can do to protect yourself.  Always be aware of your surroundings.  If you carry a purse  don't leave it in a shopping cart. In fact, you always want to keep it close to you.  Try not to shop alone, especially at night. And if you go to an ATM don't display your cash, count it later.

"Now if you are confronted and there is a robbery and your purse is being taken we're telling you to relinquish that property. Let them take your stuff and be safe, " said Pinon.

Police also say if your are being robbed  take a good look at suspect. You want to be able to help police track down the robbers.