GAINES TOWNSHIP, Mich. — Deputies are requesting the public’s assistance in locating a person suspected of snatching a purse from a 70-year-old woman in Gaines Township Sunday evening.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office says the incident occurred on the southeast side of the city after 6 p.m. in a store parking lot on Marketplace Drive.
We’re told a younger Black male in a winter coat ran up to a 70-year-old woman from Kentwood and grabbed her purse from her cart while she unloaded groceries.
The suspect fled in a Kia that was reported stolen and later made transactions with the victim’s credit cards at nearby retailers, authorities say.
Deputies suspect a handful of individuals were involved in similar robberies that have occurred since the summertime.
Those with knowledge related to the incident are asked to connect with authorities by calling 616-632-6125. Tips may also be submitted anonymously to Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.
The sheriff’s office advises the public to be mindful of their surroundings and to keep their possessions in sight while out shopping.
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