CCTV image released of female suspect in 'shocking' robbery of woman, 80, in Shipley (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

CCTV image released of female suspect in 'shocking' robbery of woman, 80, in Shipley

6:13pm Thursday 21st March 2013 in News

Detectives have stepped up their investigation into the “shocking” robbery of a pensioner by releasing a CCTV image of the female suspect.

The victim, an 80-year-old woman, had her bag snatched from her shoulder as she walked along Well Croft, in Shipley, with her husband.

The pensioner fell and banged her head as a result of the incident.

The image shows a woman police want to speak to. Detectives said the violence used against a vulnerable victim was “unnecessary.”

The suspect, who was wearing a Bradford City FC bomber jacket, fled the scene.

A Good Samaritan chased her to the Hockney pub in Dale Street and managed to get the bag back. However, when it was returned to the victim, it was discovered her purse was missing.

The offence happened at about 4.20pm on Monday as the couple walked past Shipley library. They had just parked their Honda Civic in the Asda car park.

Detective Inspector Neil Benstead, of Airedale and North Bradford CID, said: “I am confident that the suspect is local to the area and will be known. I therefore appeal for anyone who recognises the woman to call police.

“This offence was captured on CCTV and shows an attack on an elderly lady walking in Shipley with her husband. The level of violence used by the suspect to take the bag from such a vulnerable victim was unnecessary and shocking.”

The victim was taken to hospital after the incident but was not seriously injured.

Police say the suspect was a white woman with brown hair in a pony tail. She was freckled, about 5’6” tall, wearing the Bantams jacket, jeans and trainers.

Anyone who recognises the woman in the picture can ring DC Nicola Whitley, at Airedale and Bradford North CID, on 101. Alternatively, ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.