Woman, 91, blind was target of a thief

MILTON, Fla. (WALA) - Santa Rosa County Deputies are still searching for a woman who has allegedly conned her way into the homes of elderly women, stealing their purses and then using their credit cards or money at local businesses.

Marie Brecke has been through a lot in the more than 20 years she's lived in her home in Milton.

She says she's always felt safe but that all changed on August 10, when she says the suspect authorities are searching for came to her door.

"She told me 'There's a big storm coming. My puppy is out there and I need to find her because she's afraid of storms.' So she came in and sat down," said Brecke.

Brecke says the suspect eventually got up and left, taking her purse with her. Brecke who is legally blind, couldn't even see it.

Authorities say the woman is suspected in at least four thefts in Milton.

"I can't get over the fact that someone would do that to an old lady who can't see. That's the thing that is really terrible," Brecke said.

Brecke says the suspect acted like she was familiar with the area.

"I think she had this planned. I can't understand how anyone could do this to elderly people or anybody," said Brecke, "I've always been too trusting. I think I'll get over it but it may take a year or even longer."

Deputies describe the suspect as 5’4” to 5’6”, 23 to 35 years old, 130 to 160 pounds, and has an unknown tattoo on her right ankle.

The suspect's vehicle is described as a late-model Dodge Dakota, two-door truck with toolbox on the back.

The occasions and locations are listed below.

• Sunday, July 29- 6700 North Ave. (Milton Police)
• Monday, August 6 - 6400 Wilmar Ave.
• Friday, August 10 - 5600 Meadowlark Lane
• Saturday, August 11 - 4500 Water St.

The Sheriff’s Office asks all citizens to be aware of this tactic, and to spread the word to others; especially elderly females. Anyone with information concerning the suspect’s identity is asked to contact the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office at 983-1100, or Santa Rosa Crime Stoppers at 437-STOP (7867).