The Seattle police arrested James Credit, 26, for allegedly stealing purses and bags from women in the past six weeks.
Most of the victims are Asians aged 40 to 80.
The department’s Bias Crime Unit began an investigation due to the victims being Asian.
Surveillance video caught Credit allegedly robbing a woman on April 28 at Lam’s Seafood Market. The suspect “ran up to her, stole her purse, and jumped into the passenger seat of a getaway car.”
From KIRO7:
Seattle Police said they have linked Credit to 14 thefts since early April, adding that rental cars with licensed plates removed were used in some of the thefts.Police arrested Credit Tuesday at a rental car office, and said he had a gun, which is illegal because he is a convicted felon.“We’re going to be finding these people and holding them accountable,” said Detective Patrick Michaud of SPD.
The department understands why the Asian community remains hesitant to report crimes. But Michaud applauded those who have come forward because they provide valuable information. Without them, the police “wouldn’t even have been able to make an arrest like this.”
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