Shoppers warned to watch their purses
March 14, 2008
(Click graphic to enlarge)
The Columbia Police Department issued a news release Tuesday warning Columbia residents about a recent spree of purse thefts at local grocery stores that have occurred during the past month.
Seven purses have been stolen in total, and one more theft was attempted. Four were stolen on Feb. 29, two more were stolen on March 4 and one more was stolen on March 8. Most of the thefts happened during lunch hours and have taken place at all three Columbia Wal-Marts, Gerbes on Broadway and Moser’s Discount Foods on Business Loop 70.
Columbia police describe the suspect as a 5-foot-6-inch white female with blondish-brown hair and with a normal to heavy build. Police obtained the description by video surveillance from stores as well as eyewitness descriptions.
Spokespeople at some local grocery stores said they were not aware of the problem, and others declined to comment.
As a precaution, CPD Capt. Zim Schwartze suggested women stay alert while grocery shopping. Schwartze is the commander of the Community Operations Division.
Schwartze said there have been other sprees like this in the past, but the police department wants to warn Columbia residents before the situation worsens.
Schwartze reminded residents that thieves can be men and women, and crime can happen at any time, day or night. She said people keep their belongings close when they are shopping.
“Women should keep their purses with them at all times, keep it zipped up, and stay alert,” Schwartze said.
Schwartze said she also encourages people to talk about the crimes with friends and people in the community. Schwartze has been active in alerting residents to the issue to prevent it from happening again.
“We are trying to educate people through the media,” Schwartze said.
She said Columbia residents are encouraged to contact police if they witness any criminal activity and to always stay alert for suspicious behavior.
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