Purse-snatchers at large in our shops

Mar 7 2008 by Katie Campling, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

PURSE-DIPPERS are still heaping misery on Huddersfield shoppers.

From the start of the year up to the end of February 29 more than 90 people have fallen victim to these thieves.

This is more than one a day and far higher than we’d expect.

Amazingly, 18 of the offences took place on New Street with stores including Marks and Spencer, Bon Marché and Principles among the main hunting grounds.

And at least eight of the crimes were committed in supermarkets.

The busiest day for offences is Monday, closely followed by Thursday. The offences are usually committed between 11am and 3.45pm, with the peak time being between 2pm and 3.45pm.

Two women shoppers became victims at the Tesco supermarket on Viaduct Street in the last week.

A 75-year-old had her purse stolen from her handbag, which was hooked on to her trolley. And a 47-year-old had her purse taken from her bag, which she was on her shoulder.

In the Card Factory at the Pack Horse Centre a woman aged 79 had her purse stolen from her bag by a woman who bumped into her and a 72-year-old woman had her purse taken from a bag she was carrying over her arm.

On Tuesday a woman of 68 had her purse stolen from her handbag while shopping in Poundworld on New Street.

She felt two people jostle her and while she was off guard they stole the purse.

This kind of offence is becoming quite prevalent, but it can be reasonably easy to prevent.

Some people still carry open bags with their purse near the top because it’s easy to find.

But it’s best to get yourself a bag that closes and wear it with the clasp side against your body. Be aware of people around you.

Consider getting a small chain to connect your purse to the inside of your bag. We are trying to get some to give out.

If you are aware of elderly relatives or friends who may be vulnerable to this kind of offence encourage them to be more vigilant.

Meanwhile, at 8.30pm on Tuesday a 16-year-old girl had her bag snatched on Tolson Crescent in Dalton.

A man ran up from behind and pulled the Burberry bag from her shoulder.

The thief is white, aged around 20, and wore a black baseball cap, dark blue jeans and a dark coat.

Anyone with information about any of these crimes should contact police on 0845 6060606 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.