Man Steals Pricey Lens from Samy’s Camera

An unidentified man recently stole a camera lens worth approximately $1,000 from Samy’s Camera on Chapala Street, and Santa Barbara police have released surveillance video stills of the suspect to help find him.

According to SBPD spokesperson Sgt. Riley Harwood, a store employee was allowing the suspect to view and try the lens when he walked out of the store as soon as the employee turned his back. Harwood said Samy’s staff has a policy of keeping an eye on customers when they examine equipment but that “the crook took advantage of a very busy day.”

If you recognize this person, contact SBPD Det. Rashun Drayton at (805) 897-2325 or rdrayton@sbpd.com, or call anonymously at (805) 897-2386.