Handbag theft suspect apprehended by police in Plymouth
Police in Plymouth acted quickly to arrest and charge a man after receiving multiple reports about an individual attempting to steal handbags from members of the public while riding a bicycle in the city centre.
Police were deployed into the city, both on foot and in vehicles, to identify and arrest the man, keeping people safe from becoming victims.
Patrol Inspector John Henley, who heads up the team of officers who respond to emergency calls, said: “These types of incidents are rare in the Plymouth; the city is a safe place to work, live and shop. However, when a crime like this does happen, our response is robust and effective.
“With the support of the council’s CCTV team, who monitor all cameras and footage in the city centre, officers were able to locate and pursue the man, who was apprehended while still on a bicycle. He was then arrested, and the stolen bags were safely recovered.”
The stolen items have been returned to their rightful owners.
“We know the impact that these crimes can have on our communities and victims. I hope this shows the public that we are listening to their reports and are taking action to pursue people who are causing harm in our city,” Insp Henley added. “Crime will not be tolerated here - our officers will continue work with our partners, such as the CCTV operators, to target offenders quickly and effectively."
If you have any information or concerns about crime in your area, please report it to Devon & Cornwall Police online via the website or by calling 101. If a crime is taking place, call 999. You can also report information anonymously to Crimestoppers UK on 0800 555111.
If you have been affected by crime, please visit victimcare-dc.org to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system. You can also call Victim Support on 08 08 16 89 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.
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