Theft of Purses From Elderly Females

The Sarnia Police Service is currently investigating two crimes where elderly women had their purses stolen from them.

The first incident occurred on January 16, 2020, involving a male being described as tall and thin and wearing dark clothing. The suspect pulled a purse away from a 73-year-old female and then ran from the scene. The victim fell to the ground and sustained minor injuries that required medical attention. This incident occurred in the parking lot located to the southwest of Russell Street and London Road (behind Central Baptist Church) at some time between 9:00 AM an d 10:00 AM.

The second incident occurred on January 19, 2020, at approximately 3:00 PM, in the 300 block area of Maria Street, to the west of Russell Street. In this case a 76-year-old female had her purse snatched by a suspect. Fortunately, she did not sustain any injuries and the suspect ran from the scene again. A person in the area heard the elderly female yelling and gave chase after the suspect but was unable to catch him.

In the second incident the suspect is described as being Caucasian, in his twenties, wearing a dark coloured parka, jeans, and has a hospital mask on.

We are asking the public to please be aware of their surroundings when exiting or entering their vehicle. These targeted attacks are against elderly females for their purses. If possible, attempt not to display your purse openly and consider a wallet that can be placed in your coat.

Below is a photo of a person of interest to the Sarnia Police Service regarding these robberies. If anyone has any information you are please asked to contact Detective Jeff Rovers at 519-344-8861, extension 6159, or Sarnia Lambton Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.