Suffolk County Police are asking for the public’s help locating a Shirley man wanted in connection with two alleged sleight-of-hand cons in Suffolk County.
Police said Louis Pagano, 41, is wanted for two quick-change theft incidents that took place earlier this year in Dix Hills and Huntington Station.
According to investigators, the first incident happened on Jan. 3 at Urban Air, located at 683 Old Country Road in Dix Hills. Police said Pagano asked an employee to break two $100 bills into smaller denominations. While distracting the worker with conversation, he allegedly slipped some of the returned cash into his pocket before claiming he received the wrong amount of change. Authorities said the business ultimately lost $80.
Police said a second incident occurred on March 20 at Deli Pupuseria Salvadorena, located at 200 West Jericho Turnpike in Huntington Station. Investigators allege Pagano bought a beer and, after receiving change, distracted the employee while quickly pocketing $40. He then allegedly claimed he had been shorted, prompting the employee to hand over another $40.
Quick-change thefts are a type of scam in which suspects allegedly confuse cashiers during transactions to steal money without immediately raising suspicion.
Suffolk County Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information is asked to contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, using the P3 Tips mobile app, or visiting P3Tips.com.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Photo: SCPD.
