Stores warn customers of purse snatching

A grocery store is warning its women customers to keep an eye on their purses after reports of two weekend purse snatching incidents.

The Metro grocery store in Grandview Mall on River Street posted a warning to customers on its doors asking women to watch out for potential purse-snatchers. Thunder Bay Police Service said there were four incidents in the last few days – two at Metro, an incident on Court Street near Safeway and another near County Fair – but the owners of the purses didn’t pursue charges.

Chris Adams, executive officer with Thunder Bay Police Service, said despite these incidents, purse snatching is not necessary on the rise.

"Purses are obviously something that thieves will focus in on," Adams said. "We like to advise shoppers when they are out to keep an eye on their purse, keep their purse closed and keep control of that purse as much as they can."

Adams said crowded areas such as grocery stores and shopping malls could distract customers who might lose sight of their purses.

People traditionally carry a number of valuable items in their purses. By taking some of those items out, Adams said it could lessen the chances of someone grabbing the purse.

Adams also said people should avoid confrontations with a purse-snatcher as they could be carrying a weapon.

"You really don’t know what you could be potentially dealing with," he said. "It’s best to step back, collect your thoughts, try and get a good description of the person and then ask for help."