Crime & Safety

Women Robbed of Purse While Holding 2-Year-Old Daughter in Her Arms

Police searched for suspect but couldn't find him after incident on University Avenue.

A La Mesa woman holding her 2-year-old daughter in her arms was robbed of her purse in the 8000 block of University Avenue on Saturday night, police report.

According to the La Mesa Police Department, the 27-year-old victim was walking northbound and crossing University when a man approached her from behind about 7:30 p.m.

He shoved her in the back and grabbed the purse on her arm before fleeing on foot, police said.

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“Neither the female nor child was injured during the struggle,” police said in a news release. The assailant was last seen running northbound on Culowee Street from University Avenue.

Officers searched the surrounding areas with the assistance of a San Diego Sheriff Department’s K-9 unit, but were unable to find the man.

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Police Lt. Angela DeSarro said the woman called police when she got home in the El Cajon Boulevard area of west La Mesa.

The suspect is described as a black male, 5-foot-9, 35 years old, with a medium build, wearing a gray-colored jacket with a red or gray hood, a dark-colored baseball cap and dark gray pants.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the La Mesa Police Department.

You may also call Crime Stoppers’ anonymous toll-free tip line 888-580-TIPS (or  sdcrimestoppers.com). You can remain anonymous, and be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 for information in this case.


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