MPD: Purse snatched in mall parking lot

MOBILE, Ala.(WALA) - Mobile police said a suspect stole a woman’s purse in the Bel Air mall parking lot.

Authorities said February 1, 25-year-old Vincent Ruggs pushed a 56-year-old woman to the ground, took her purse and ran away. Authorities said the victim's shoulder was broken during the time of the attack.

"He then used several credit cards out of that purse at some different stores around town,” said Cpl. Chris Levy with Mobile police.

Detectives arrested Ruggs and charged him with third-degree robbery, second-degree assault, and three counts of fraudulent use of a credit card. 

"He is significantly bigger than our victim, and he was able, it almost seems like a cowardly move, to push her down, break her shoulder and take her purse,” said Levy.

During Ruggs perp walk Ruggs said, “I ain’t pushed nobody down.”

 He then said he was not answering anymore questions.

Here are some things to consider when you’re doing things like jogging or even walking into the mall.

• Walk in groups, especially at night.
• Hold on to your purse, keep it close to your body.
•  Keep Mace on your key chain.

We asked MPD for surveillance video of the incident. It said it would not be released since the suspect has been identified.