Man steals money from caricature artist but leaves behind portrait

Police in Riverside are investigating a theft at the recent Festival of Lights that unfortunately left a caricature artist without his money but with something that might help police solve this crime -- a caricature portrait of the suspect.

Riverside police say the suspect approached the victim at about 11:50 p.m. on Dec. 5 and asked for a portrait of himself to which the victim agreed. Once the victim finished, the suspect grabbed a money bag that belonged to the victim and contained approximately $500 in cash, the Riverside Police Department said.

The suspect took off but left his portrait behind.

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Authorities released the suspect's caricature hoping the public may be able to recognize the man. He was described as a black male adult in his early 20s, about 5-feet 1-inches tall with an average build, black hair and mustache. He was last seen wearing a blue and red jacket, white undershirt, black pants, and red hat.

Anyone with information regarding the suspect's identity or this crime is asked to contact Detective Jeff Putnam at 951-826-2054 or jputnam@riversideca.gov.