Loudon detectives need help in identifying theft suspect

WBIR-Investigators are asking for the public's help in tracking down a woman they say vandalized vehicles, stole what was inside, and then continued the crime spree.

It all started in the Avalon subdivision off Essex Court in Loudon County.

Just before 2 a.m. Oct. 12, Loudon County Sheriff's Det. Jason Smith said someone broke into three separate vehicles in the area. He believes multiple people were involved.

Two vehicles were unlocked, but the thieves used a rock to break out two rear windows of the third vehicle.

The owner of that vehicle, who wanted to remain anonymous, said the thieves stole hundreds of dollars in cash, including Euros and American dollars. He and his wife had just returned from a European 10th anniversary celebration.

He says the thieves also got away with his wife's Coach purse, which had her Pandora charm bracelet inside. He said the bracelet itself was worth thousands, but it was worth much more in sentiment.

Investigators got a break in the case when a woman used the victim's credit card at the Petro station off Watt Road later that same morning.

Surveillance video shows her wearing a tie-dye t-shirt and buying cigarettes from the clerk using the stolen credit card and stolen ID.

Now, investigators are hoping someone will recognize her.

"I think somebody's going to know this female and know this lady and be able to recognize her just by the way she walks, the way she looks, especially with the facial features in the shot," Det. Smith said. "I believe that someone quickly will recognize her and call in."

If you have any information, you're asked to call Det. Smith at 988-2352.