It took a while, but another case involving theft at the Meadowbrook Mall solved thanks to social media. This time, however, the person providing the tip proved to be another member of law enforcement.

 

According to Bridgeport Police Officer K.M. Burgess the individual responsible for allegedly stealing a wallet and then using it for a number of illegal transactions was identified and tracked down – ironically – through social media.

 

“I didn’t any idea who was in the photos with the last case involving the wallet at the mall. We found out through the use social media on Connect-Bridgeport,” said Burgess. “We received the information as to who it was likely to be from the Salem Police Chief.”

 

Initially, two individuals were being sought. Only one individual will be charged for the Dec. 29 incident.

 

Burgess said the man in question will be charged with the fraudulent use of an access device, in this case a credit card. It is a misdemeanor and will likely result in a fine.

 

Part of the reason the chief was able to identify the suspect is that he is a Salem resident.

 

“At this point he hasn’t been arrested. As is standard procedure in a case such as this, the individual is given an opportunity to come here and provide a statement,” said Burgess. “At this point he has not done that, but we know who he is and where he is.”

 

Burgess is thankful that despite the grainy images that were available the case ended up working out. He said the social media postings are proving more and more beneficial.

 

“It helps us out a lot. It gives us another tool that we can use in trying to identify people,” said Burgess. “Again, it worked out.”