By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org
Heading to the store for a little shopping? Local law enforcement have a warning for anyone carrying a purse, keep an eye on it.
Over the past few weeks, several area agencies, including the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, the Kentwood Police, the Grand Rapids Police, and the Kent County Sheriff’s Office, have reported several purse snatching incidents at large retail establishments in Wyoming, Grand Rapids, Kent County, and Kentwood. According to police, the suspects appear to be targeting females in the parking lot who are alone, over the age of 50, and have their purse in a shopping cart.
When the victim is not playing attention, the suspects will take the purse from the cart and flee. In one instance, according to the report, the victim had her purse in her hands and the suspects pulled it away from her. They victim attempted to chase after them and felt to the ground, receiving minor injuries to her hand.
“Make sure to secure your purse in your vehicle before offloading your groceries,” said Lt. Eric Wiler, from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety. “Mostly, these suspects are waiting for someone to turn their back to load groceries, leaving the purse unattended.”
Along with securing their purse right away, Wiler said residents should be aware of their surroundings and if it is dark, make sure to park where it is well lighted.
Investigators from all four agencies have been working to identify the suspects involved in these incidents.
Anyone that can identify the suspects or has information these incidents, is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, 616-530-7366; Kentwood Police Department, 616-656-6600; Grand Rapids Police Department, 616-456-3380; Kent County Sheriff’s Department, 616-632-6125; or Silent Observer, 616-774-2345.
Other crime prevention tips:
Don’t carry a shoulder bag over your shoulder. This makes it easier for a thief to grab the bag and knock you down or injure you.
Shorten the strap so you can hold the purse tightly under your arm or lengthen it to wear diagonally across your body in front.
Never walk around with an open purse.
Don’t walk with your purse dangling or wrap the strap around your shoulder, neck or wrist. A strong tug from a thief could injure you.
Fanny packs are a safe alternative to the traditional purse as they are worn tight and close to the body making them harder to grab.
When possible, shop with a friend.
Only carry what you need. Leave extra money, valuable jewelry, and credit cards at home.
