Purse snatcher targets the elderly

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (WDTN) - A crime stoppers alert was issued by Clark county authorities, for a purser snatcher who targeted the elderly.

Authorities said, this man lurked around local grocery stores and parking lots, stalking his victims. He was identified as Matthew D. Nichols by Sheriff's officials.

Surveillance video from Kroger on East Main Street in Springfield, showed the suspect following 86-year old Mary Jones out of Kroger, on Monday morning.

"I thought he was a nice young fella. He just walked by me," said Jones.

Authorities said the suspect actually approached Jones in the parking lot, and tried to start up a conversation. Jones said he told her he had lost his car. Jones said she commented and said, "I've done that before," and kept walking.

When she got to her car, Jones said, the man came out of no where, snatched her purse off her arm, and took off.

"Oh I went hysteric. I couldn't believe it I started screaming. He stole my purse and two ladies behind me came running and said yeah we seen him, he went right through there," said Jones.

Jones said Nichols stole more than just her purse filled with a $10 bill, a credit card, and her insurance papers. He also stole her peace of mind.

"I pray for him. I forgive his sins, and I hope someday he realizes what bad things he's doing and change his whole life," said Jones.

If you knwow where Matthew Nichols is, call Crimestoppers at (937) 222-STOP.