Good Samaritan tackles suspected Sheboygan purse snatcher

SHEBOYGAN (WITI) -- Sheboygan police have arrested a suspected purse snatcher after a good Samaritan tackled the man upon witnessing him steal a woman's purse Friday, April 18th.

Just after 4 p.m., a 54-year-old Sheboygan woman was leaving a business on N. 8th St. As she was putting items into her vehicle, the 28-year-old male suspect approached her from behind, grabbed her purse, and pulled her to the ground.

The suspect then ran from the scene.

A 55-year-old man driving past the area witnessed the suspect fleeing with the purse and followed him. When the suspect ran into a nearby yard, the good Samaritan parked his vehicle and began searching for the man.

The good Samaritan located the suspect in a yard, going through the stolen purse. The man then pursued, tackled and held down the suspect as officers arrived on scene.

Sheboygan police describe the man's actions as both decisive and courageous.

The suspect was taken into custody. He has previous convictions for robbery, substantial battery, possession with intent to deliver marijuana and manufacture/delivery of marijuana.

Police are looking into whether the suspect may be connected to a string of other purse snatching incidents in the area.

The victim in this case suffered injuries to her arm and leg, and may need medical treatment.

Sheboygan Police issued a release that says: Creating and maintaining a safe city cannot occur without a community wide effort. We all have a civic duty to help set consistent expectations and community standards. By working together and looking out for our neighbors we can enhance both community safety and individual liberty.