Thieves Target Vulnerable Elderly Women in Shocking Bag Snatch Spree
Detectives are hunting two men suspected of preying on vulnerable elderly women across Solihull and Sutton Coldfield during a brazen four-day robbery spree.
Four Elderly Victims, Handbags Snatched
Between 18 and 22 July, four women aged over 70 – including one aged 87 – with visible walking difficulties had their handbags stolen in broad daylight. The crooks struck in public places, snatching personal belongings and fleeing in a green Peugeot, now recovered by police.
Crime Spree May Be Linked to More Thefts
Further probes suggest the same gang is behind another attempted bag theft and a burglary in the area. In three cases, the stolen cards were quickly used to drain victims’ bank accounts.
Locations of Attacks
- Lanchester Way, Smiths Wood
- Green Lane, Castle Bromwich
- Auckland Drive, Smiths Wood
- Tudor Hill, Sutton Coldfield
- Attempted swipe on Boldmere Road, Sutton Coldfield
- Purse stolen from a shop worker on Timberley Lane, Shard End
Police Appeal for Witnesses
“These were traumatic experiences for the victims who are now frightened to leave their homes alone,” said DC Julie Stokes of force CID. “It was despicable to target them knowing their vulnerabilities. We’ve reviewed hours of CCTV and are confident the same men were involved. If you have any information, please come forward.”
Contact West Midlands Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111. Quote crime reference 20SH/171516G/19.
