Walsall police appeal after 'distressing' video captures offender snatching handbag from woman, 70, in the middle of a road
An appeal for public help has been launched after a video was released showing a bag snatch in broad daylight.
West Midlands Police have launched an investigation after the incident, which saw an offender clad in black snatch a bag from a woman in her 70s on Dale Street in Walsall, at the junction of Sun Street and Palfrey Park.
The offender was seen grabbing the bag as the woman was walking towards the park and running off towards the alleyway leading onto King Street, with at least one person giving chase.
The force has asked for anyone with any information to get in touch, while also confirming that there would be extra patrols in the Palfrey area.
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "We are investigating after a woman, in her 70’s, was the victim of a bag snatch on Dale Street, Palfrey, Walsall, at the junction with Sun Street and Palfrey Park.
"The incident took place between 11.10am and 11.25am on Saturday (15 July) where an offender snatched a bag from a woman and then ran off into the alleyway leading onto King Street."
Inspector Pete Poolton, Inner Sector Neighbourhood Manager at Walsall LPA, said: "This was a very distressing incident for the lady involved and we are very keen to find the person responsible.
“We realise incidents like this do cause alarm and anger in the community so we will be increasing patrols in the Palfrey area.
“We would urge witnesses or people with information to please contact us via Live Chat on our website or by ringing 101 quoting crime investigation number 20/585493/23. Alternatively ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.”
