Purse-Snatcher on Maple Avenue Robs Woman from Behind

Police are looking for a purse-snatcher who attacked a 52-year-old woman from behind on a Maple Avenue sidewalk in front of the victim’s apartment.

The woman told police she had just returned from work, a little before 10:45 p.m. Friday, when she was approached from behind.

The robber grabbed her purse, which was slung across her shoulder, and pulled, according to La Mesa police. 

“The [robber] simultaneously shoved the victim with his shoulder, freeing the purse from the victim’s grasp.  The [robber] ran away with the purse north on Maple Avenue towards University Avenue,” according to a news release.

“Prior to the police arriving, the victim recovered her purse in a nearby dumpster.  An undetermined amount of money was missing from the victims’ purse.”The victim was not injured and the assailant has not been found, police said.   The robber is described as a man of unknown race, 6 feet tall, medium build, wearing a black hooded jacket and baggie blue jeans.  He concealed his face with the hood of his jacket.            

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the La Mesa Police Department at 619-667-1400. 

You also may call Crime Stoppers’ anonymous toll-free tip line 1-888-580-TIPS (or sdcrimestoppers.com).  You can remain anonymous, and be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest in this case.