SMPD Seeks Victims Of Elder Robbery Scheme

SANTA MONICA, CA — The Santa Monica Police Department is asking for the public's help in finding additional victims who may have been targeted by two suspects, Diana George and a male suspect police believe to be Richard Ely, SMPD announced Saturday.

George was identified in two incidents targeting elderly victims in Santa Monica during January and February of this year, police said. During these incidents, SMPD said George and a male suspect entered the victims' homes by posing as gardeners or by pretending to be new neighbors.

Once the duo was inside the home, George would allegedly distract the resident by asking for a glass of water, while the male suspect "scoured the house for jewelry and cash," police said. George and Ely, who is the possible second suspect in the Santa Monica incidents, were recently arrested in Illinois for a burglary committed at an elderly victim’s home.

"Both suspects have a criminal history of thefts involving elderly victims, and have felony warrants for similar crimes in other states," SMPD said. "The Santa Monica Police Department is seeking additional information regarding incidents with similar circumstances involving the above suspects."

Anyone who may have been a target of this crime is encouraged to contact Detective Tavera at (310) 458-2256 or the Watch Commander at (310) 458-2249.