Vancouver Police say they have nabbed an alleged purse snatcher after a string of recent robberies in Chinatown.
Around 3 p.m. Tuesday, police spotted a man robbing an 85-year-old woman at Gore Avenue and Keefer Street. Police pursued the man to the 200-block of E. Pender St. where he was taken into custody.
Police say 28-year-old Calder Green of Surrey has been charged with one count of robbery in relation to Tuesday’s purse snatching. Police continue to investigate the possible link between yesterday’s purse snatching and five other recent robberies in Chinatown.
On Monday, a 51-year-old woman was taking some groceries out of her car when she was approached from behind. The suspect pushed her down, grabbed her purse and took off.
The first robbery took place in the 200-block of East Pender Street on Oct. 28 at around 5 p.m. The 80-year-old victim was pushed to the ground from behind and the suspect fled with her purse. She was treated, on scene, by paramedics for minor injuries.
The second robbery happened Oct. 31 at 5:30 p.m. in the 500-block of Main street. A 91-year-old woman had her purse violently snatched from her hands, knocking her to the ground. The victim suffered a minor knee injury and was treated in hospital.
Less than 20 minutes later, a 81-year-old woman was robbed, in the same manner, in the 600-block of Jackson Street. The victim chased after the robber, but lost him as he fled southbound on Jackson.
The fourth robbery took place Sunday around 5 p.m. near Gore and East Cordova Streets. Again, the 59-year-old victim was attacked from behind and her purse was taken. However, this time the victim was able to avoid injury.
“These are cowardly acts committed against vulnerable members of our community,” said Sergeant Randy Fincham of the VPD. “These women are someone’s mother and grandmother, who should be able to go about their day, without fear of being attacked.”
Anyone with information about these robberies is asked to call the Vancouver Police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
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