Cops: Woman stole wallet or credit cards of Westhampton Beach shoppers

A Westhampton Beach woman stole the wallets or credit cards of multiple shoppers while in businesses across the village since April, authorities said Tuesday.

Maria Gutierrez-Monterey, 40, was arrested Monday afternoon and charged with several counts of fourth-degree grand larceny, Westhampton Village police said.

Authorities said Gutierrez-Monterey would enter a business and use a distraction, such as trying on clothing or asking questions, as she stole the victim’s wallet or removed credit cards from their pocketbook. 

She would then use the stolen proceeds at local businesses, police said, with some victims unaware that their items had been taken until they were contacted by police.

Gutierrez-Monterey was processed and released on a desk appearance ticket and will appear in court at a later date. 

Residents with information about the thefts or who believe they were a victim can contact Westhampton Beach Criminal Investigations at 631-702-1569.

By Robert Brodsky

robert.brodsky@newsday.com@BrodskyRobert

Robert Brodsky is a breaking news reporter who has worked at Newsday since 2011. He is a Queens College and American University alum.