Crime
Prevention - Purse Snatchers
Purse
snatching is a crime of opportunity. But it is an opportunity
you can severely restrict. Senior citizens are especially
susceptible to purse snatching criminals since they are, generally,
less likely to defend themselves and less likely to run after
their assailants.
What
You Can Do
Purse
snatching is best prevented by removing the opportunity from
the thief. Simply don't carry a purse, or keep it hidden from
view. Most purse snatchers are juveniles under the age of
18. They are quick and they work on the element of surprise.
If they don't see a purse, however, then they have no target
to go after.
If someone
grabs your purse, you can be injured by the yanking and/or
breaking strap, and the possibility of being pulled down or
into a stationary object. The first precaution you should
take is not to go out by yourself. Go with a friend - man
or women. You are much less likely to be targeted if you are
with someone else. If you must be out at night alone, stay
in well-lighted areas and away from dark corners, alleys and
building entrances.
How
To Outsmart The Purse Snatchers
When carrying
a purse, keep only 3 or 4 one dollar bills placed inside.
Credit cards, currency, driver's license, keys and jewelry
should be carried in a coat or sweater pocket, or concealed
on your person to reduce the opportunity of large losses.
If you
carry a purse, don't wrap the strap around your shoulder,
neck or wrist. If your purse is grabbed, a strong strap will
not yield easily and you may be injured. Some purse snatch
victims have been thrown down and have received concussions
and broken bones. Never carry anything more valuable than
you can afford to lose. Always leave all unnecessary credit
cards at home. When you shop and carry a purse, place it in
your shopping bag. Never leave your purse unattended on a
store counter or in a shopping cart - not even for a moment.
Call
The Police Immediately
Most victims
are attacked from behind. They don't get a good look at the
attacker. And when a juvenile gets away with it once, he will
very likely do it again. If attacked, call the police immediately.
Provide them with as much detail as you can remember about
the incident, and provide the best description you can, even
though you likely will only get a glimpse of the perpetrator.
