California police seek ‘shrimp bandit’ who stuffed pants with frozen seafood

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (KTLA) – Investigators released video Tuesday as they hunt for a man who allegedly stole dozens of bags of frozen shrimp from a Southern California grocery store earlier this month.

Dubbed the "shrimp bandit," the thief stuffed the chilly packets down his pants in the frozen-food section of a Vons in Riverside, police said in a news release.

The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. on Dec. 4.

The man had to make three trips to complete the heist, but it only took him about 15 minutes, investigators said.

He was able to make off with a total of 30 bags, which officials say would have retailed for more than $500.

Police describe the shrimp bandit as a white man in his 50s with gray hair. He measures about 5 feet, 10 inches tall and weighs between 150 and 180 pounds — likely depending on how much shrimp he is carrying.

The surveillance video shows him wearing jeans with a navy blue sweater and tan jacket.

Anyone who recognizes the man can contact Detective Jeff Putnam at 951-826-2054 or jputnam@Riversideca.gov. Anonymous tips may be submitted via rpdtips@riversideca.gov.