Pair wanted in distraction theft

Police have released photos of two people they want to question in connection with a series of thefts in Newport Beach.

One of the people is described as a male Latino older than 50, 5-foot-8 and 190 pounds with a scar on the ride side of his neck. The other person is described as a female Latino older than 30, 5-foot-1, pregnant and more than 150 pounds.

She has a tattoo on the side of her neck, authorities said.

Police said they are not sure if the pair are the people responsible for picking pockets at local open houses and retail stores.

Authorities said that while one person distracts a store employee or Realtor, the other will take the victim’s wallet or purse.

The theft victim’s credit cards are usually used soon after they are stolen, police said.

Anyone with information about where these two people might be are asked to call Newport Beach police at (800) 550-NBPD, or Det. Scott Smith at (949) 644-3762.

— Joseph Serna