Volume 3, No. 27 June 13, 2003
Protecting purses from potential perps By Gene Friedman According to a crime prevention pamphlet distributed by the Savannah Police Department, an estimated 35-40 percent of violent crimes occur on city streets. Purse snatching is typical of these crimes of opportunity. According to SPD statistics, most thieves who grab purses are under the age of 21. The thief is usually a male, although a few females have been known to commit this crime. Young men in this group are normally in good physical condition, making them quick and agile. Add the element of surprise and this crime is over in a matter of seconds. In many cases the thief approaches his victim either on foot or on bicycle from behind, in a hit-and-run manner. This tactic catches the victim completely off-guard and the thief is gone before most victims realize what has happened. Another method that the thief might use is to ask for the time or for directions, or for a light for his cigarette in order to put his victim at ease. As soon as the victim is distracted or drops her guard, the thief grabs her purse. While the goal of the purse-snatcher is the purse and not the individual, the grabbing and shoving that may take place during this crime could result in injury to the victim. Therefore, it is worth remembering that if you are attacked you should not struggle. Surrender your purse instead of fighting with the thief. Your purse and its contents can be replaced; you can’t be. There are other useful tips to protect your possessions: • If at all possible, don’t carry a purse. Carry your wallet, keys and other valuables in a pants pocket or in an inside pocket of a jacket. • The purse should be used to carry brushes, make-up or other items that you can afford to lose. • Never carry large amounts of money; take credit cards or checks instead. Maintain a record of the card numbers at home and carry only those cards that you will be using. • If you carry a purse, secure it between your arm and body, away from traffic. An even more secure method, if you are wearing a coat, is to sling the purse over your shoulder, but under the coat. • Don’t let your purse hang loosely in your hand. • Consider carrying a “fanny pack” instead of a purse. • Don’t carry a lethal weapon; it could be used against you. • If you do become a victim, notify police immediately after the attack. Friedman is director of campus safety. The San Diego State University Police contributed to this article.
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