Suffolk Detectives Release Surveillance Seek Help Identifying Two Quick-Change Suspects

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Sixth Precinct detectives released surveillance footage on Feb. 20 seeking help to identify two men accused of stealing cash through a quick-change scam at two separate businesses in Medford and Stony Brook earlier in February. The appeal, posted by investigators, names no suspects and asks the public to review the images to help with identification.

The incidents targeted cash transactions at two businesses, one in Medford and one in Stony Brook, according to the detectives' appeal. Authorities described the thefts as quick-change scams, in which suspects distract clerks and manipulate bills to steal cash during routine purchases. The two men are accused of committing both thefts in the same pattern, prompting investigators to link the cases across town lines in Suffolk County.

Sixth Precinct detectives coordinated the release with Suffolk County Crime Stoppers on Feb. 20 after internal leads yielded limited progress, law enforcement sources said in the appeal. The surveillance footage was distributed to increase public recognition of the men and to solicit tips that could yield names, addresses, or vehicle information tied to the suspects.

Medford business owners and Stony Brook merchants were advised to review their own surveillance systems for similar incidents from early February, investigators noted in the posting. The precinct covers local commercial corridors that rely on cash transactions at deli counters, convenience stores, and small retailers — places that can be especially vulnerable to quick-change schemes when clerks are distracted or short-staffed.

Detectives emphasized the investigation remains active as they follow up on tips generated since the Feb. 20 release. The two alleged thefts are being treated as related incidents by the Sixth Precinct, and investigators are continuing to collect video evidence and witness statements from the affected businesses in Medford and Stony Brook.

The public appeal marks the latest use of surveillance releases by Suffolk County authorities to solve linked property crimes. Investigators say identifying the two men seen in the footage is a priority as they work to prevent further quick-change thefts at local businesses.