Police search for UM purse snatcher

Suspect caught on video robbing woman

MIAMI – A University of Miami student is robbed and the crime is caught on camera and now police need your help to catch the thief.

The robbery happened outside a student housing building, about a block from campus, just on the other side of busy Red Road.

The video shows the man milling around the area, trying to blend in.

He is a relatively short, lean man in dreadlocks. He waits to choose a victim and in a split second, grabs her purse and cell phone.

Another woman who walked by came back to help.

While police wait to find this guy, they are offering advice to anyone who frequents the area.

"Get in the habit of looking behind you every so many steps," said Kelly Denham of the Coral Gables Police Dept. "It's not about being paranoid, it's just trying to prevent yourself from being a victim."

The suspect is said to be driving a 2007 blue BMW, possibly a 330 series.

Anyone with information is asked to call Coral Gables Police or Miami-Dade Crimestoppers.


About the Author:

Glenna Milberg joined Local 10 News in September 1999 to report on South Florida's top stories and community issues. She also serves as co-host on Local 10's public affairs broadcast, "This Week in South Florida."