Image Credit: CFJC Today

By Greg Fry / CKPG Today

Cariboo Crime

Purse snatchers victimize Quesnel senior

Dec 11, 2020 | 1:54 PM

QUESNEL, B.C. — Quesnel RCMP are seeking the public’s help in locating two suspects police allege robbed an elderly woman.

Sgt. Richard Weseen says the Quesnel senior had her purse stolen after giving a couple money for food and providing them a ride Tuesday evening.

“At approximately 5:45 p.m., an elderly female was having difficulty making a deposit at a local bank ATM. An unknown male and female came to her aid and after the deposit was made, the couple helped the female walk to her car,” he says.

“The couple told her they hadn’t eaten for a while and asked for money. In true Christmas spirit, she gave them twenty dollars for food. When they asked for a ride down the street, she graciously agreed due to the poor weather. When the couple exited the car, they slammed her door and quickly walked away.”

When the woman returned home, Weseen says she noticed her purse had been stolen by the couple and that $400 had been withdrawn from her account.

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“It is believed the couple watched the lady enter her PIN number when they assisted her at the bank,” says Weseen.

“Unfortunately, there are people in the world who prey on those who are trying to do the right thing. This couple saw an opportunity to victimize an elderly lady, and they befriended her, all in an effort to steal from her. All she was trying to do was help.”

In light of this incident, RCMP encourage the public to donate to food banks and other non-profit groups if they wish to help the homeless and vulnerable.

The male suspect is described as white, five foot eight, medium build and wearing a dark jacket and a mask. The female suspect was Indigenous with a slim build, light coloured hair and was wearing a dark jacket and a black mask.

If you have any information about this incident you’re encourage to call the Quesnel RCMP at (250) 992-9211 or Crime Stoppers at 1(800) 222-TIPS.