A 42-year-old male is in custody after investigators linked him to a series of pickpocket frauds.

Police say the suspect allegedly would watch elderly shoppers enter their PIN numbers in while make debit or credit card purchases at a Winnipeg store. He would then follow them out of the business and use distraction techniques while stealing their purse or wallet.

The suspect would then use the credit or debit card to make purchases or withdraw cash.

Police believe that the suspect was involved in three incidents between July 31, 2019 and August 7, 2019.

Elvis Stolan from Winnipeg has been charged for his alleged involvement with Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence, Fraud Over $5000, Fraud Under $5000 (x2), Use of Credit Card (x4), Identity Theft (x3) and three counts of Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000.

He was detained in custody.

© News4.ca 2020