Police Search for 'Mad Hatters' Theft and Fraud Ring

The Sterling Heights Police Department is looking to identify a group of middle-aged to elderly women responsible for a series of larcenies and frauds throughout the metro Detroit area.

Surveillance videos of the suspects show that all are wearing hats at the time of the theft or fraud, causing the women to be dubbed the "Mad Hatters" by affected financial institutions.

Because the incidents have occurred throughout multiple jurisdictions and have involved numerous victims, police have had difficulty tying the incidents together. However, police believe the incidents began approximately one year ago and have continued on, with the most recent incidents occurring last week.

Incidents typically start with the theft of a female’s wallet or purse. Shortly after the theft, the victim's credit cards and checks are used at area retailers for merchandise or at financial institutions for cash.   

Police said surveillance photos show that the person responsible for the theft is not always the one who uses the stolen items to commit the fraud.

One of the financial institutions has been victimized for almost $200,000 and the total figure for all incidents could be as high as $500,000.   

Police are asking residents with any information to submit a tip through the Sterling Heights Police Department website or to contact Lt. Luke Riley at 586-446-2804 or Det. Kevin Miller at 586-446-2866.