Woman Charged In Shadyside Purse Snatchings

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Purse snatchings have sparked fear and apprehension among people who live and work along Ellsworth Avenue near Spahr Street in Shadyside.

Police had already arrested a juvenile but now a second suspect in custody identified as 26-year-old Jaquet Esposito. Today folks are breathing easier.

"I walk back and forth on this street to and from work, I could easily have been a victim," said Tannis Morgart.

"We just had our grand opening, Ellsworth is a super safe great street, it's kind of crazy to have purse snatchers," said winery manager Kiley Bradberry.

On Oct. 7, a woman's purse was stolen while she walking in the 5800 block of Ellsworth Avenue. The victim told police she chased the suspect to Felix Avenue where she was confronted by a second female with a gun.

A good Samaritan working as a parking valet at a nearby restaurant heard the commotion and helped retrieve her purse.

On Oct. 18, a 77-year-old woman suffered minor injuries after her purse was snatched on Ellsworth Avenue. Police say the suspects used her credit cards later at Monroeville Mall. The last purse snatching happened on Oct. 31. A 22-year-old woman was punched in the head, the suspect later used her credit card at the Giant Eagle Market District on Center Avenue.

"We were worried, I didn't want my daughter going out at night because the were attacking people," said Robbie Ali.

The victim in the first robbery gave police the license plate number to a red Jeep.

Police later found the vehicle in Wilkinsburg and arrested Esposito. At first, Esposito claimed she was forced to commit the crimes by three people. But video surveillance showed that she was the only person in the front passenger seat. Plus, she was identified by one of the victims.

"Once they got caught I felt a lot more safe, it's scary that this happens," said Erma Ali.

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