Purse thief on prowl in Fall River

FALL RIVER, Mass. (WPRI) -- Police in Fall River are hoping a surveillance image will help them catch a purse thief wanted in connection with at least two heists.

Police said one of the female victims was shopping at Price Rite on 866 Pleasant St. last Saturday when her purse - containing a small amount of cash - was stolen from her carriage.

The following day, at the same store, another woman reported her purse was also taken from her cart as she shopped. In that case, cash, prescription medication and a cell phone were stolen.

No one was hurt in either incident.

After reviewing surveillance video, police said they observed a middle-aged woman with dark hair and heavy build taking the purse from the cart.

Citizens are asked, if they know the identity of this person, to contact Det. Jared Mooney of the Fall River Police Department's Major Crimes Division at 508-324-2796. Anonymous calls can be made to the TIPS line at 508-672-TIPS (8477).