Investigators with the Andalusia Police Department are attempting to identify and locate a suspect involved in a series of thefts that occurred between late Friday afternoon and noon on Saturday.

Andalusia Police Chief Wilbur Williams said the suspect is believed to be within a 100-mile radius of the city.

“Information developed so far indicates that an unknown white female, age 55-60, driving a red 2006-2008 Dodge Dakota Quad-Cab pickup, used a series of forged personal checks and at least one forged cashier’s check to obtain several thousands of dollars worth of merchandise from several local retailers,” he said. “At the present time investigators have determined that all of the information on the checks is bogus and has failed to assist in determining the suspect’s true identity.”

The suspect is described as being approximately 5-foot-5 and weighing130-140 pounds. Williams said the suspect had light brown hair at the time of the incident but it may have been colored for the occasion. A description of the vehicle used to transport the goods was obtained from the local merchants.

“The vehicle was very clean and pictures are available,” he said. “The suspect also had possession of a new, double-axle, 6-by-16, Lore-More utility trailer, black in color.”

Williams said the suspect, after obtaining the trailer on Friday, proceeded to two other local businesses to purchase and transport other high-dollar items.

“The suspect also obtained a new Kabota BX-2350 diesel tractor with a front-end loader,” Williams said. “The suspect was last seen Sat., Oct. 18, 2008, at approximately 10 a.m. on the West Bypass in Andalusia. Direction of travel is unknown.”

Anyone having any information on the suspect is encouraged to call the Andalusia Police Department at 222-1155. Lt. Mike Bowlan of the criminal investigation division is in charge of this investigation.