AUSTIN, Texas — Austin police recorded 14 pickpocketing incidents during South by Southwest and believe the thefts were the work of a single coordinated operation, not isolated criminals acting alone.
Detectives believe the suspects worked in teams, coordinating their activities inside nightclub venues and high-density pedestrian areas where crowds made it easier to conceal the crimes.
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APD did not release information on the number of suspects. The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information related to pickpocketing incidents during SXSW is asked to contact the Austin Police Department’s Public Information Office at 512-974-5017 or police3@austintexas.gov.