Thefts of Purses and Handbags Thwarted

Brockville – On August 12, 2025, at about 5:30 pm, police received a call regarding a man who was attempting to steal purses from unsuspecting victims at the Superstore on Parkedale Avenue.

Officers arrived and observed the suspect in the area of the store checkout, suspiciously peering down at an elderly female’s walker, attentive to her purse.

The suspect was approached by police, and he was identified to be a 36-year-old man from Montreal, travelling to Toronto. Security video was observed, and the subject had also been captured searching through a senior male’s bag, but no items were taken.

These attempted thefts consisted of similarities in suspects’ travelling and committing multiple thefts and frauds within communities along the Highway 401 corridor.

The subject was arrested and charged with theft under $5,000.00 and held in custody for a bail hearing. This is a good reminder to always be aware of your surroundings while in public and to not be complacent with portable personal property; specifically purses, wallets or handbags.