Police have beefed up patrols in East Rock following three purse-snatchings in two weeks.
Top East Rock cop Lt. Manmeet Colon described the latest incident in an email message sent to neighbors Wednesday.
“Last night there was a robbery/purse snatching near 81 Livingston St.,” Colon wrote.
“2 Females were on the sidewalk as they had just returned home. Approximately 5 people were inside of a vehicle that pulled up alongside of them. 2 male subjects jumped out and approached the females while the other 3 remained in the vehicle. One of the male subjects snatched a purse from one of the female victims. The other male subject attempted to grab a crossover body bag from the other female victim while doing so he dragged her until the purse was taken away from her. She sustained minor scratches. The got in the vehicle and fled Livingston towards Edwards.
“This is the 2nd similar incident in less than a week and 3rd in less than two weeks. As you are aware, this is quite disturbing. I’ve increased presence in the East Rock area due to similar incidents. It is believed a group of juveniles are involved in these crimes and I am working closely with the Detectives to identify the group.”
Colon reported about a similar wave of purse-snatchings at the most recent meeting of Newhallville’s community management team. Click here to read that story.