THOMASVILLE — Local shoppers and business owners helped capture the suspect in a reported purse-snatching from an elderly victim Tuesday morning.  

At around 11a.m., police responded to the Gateway Shopping Center in reference to the robbery.  

According to reports, several witnesses chased the suspect out of the shopping center and gave a clear description to police. 

“Due to the descriptions from the witnesses and their assistance, we were able to notify and surround the area pretty quickly and (issue a be on the lookout for) the area for the subject,” said Lt.Toby Knifer, Thomasville Police Department Criminal Investigations Division commander. 

Soon after, Flowers Nissan employees contacted police with sightings of the male suspect that matched witnesses’ descriptions. 

Police caught up to the suspect and arrested him near East Jackson Street. 

During the investigation, K9 assistance was deployed to recover the stolen purse, which was returned to the victim. 

Knifer confirmed the victim did not sustain any injuries from the incident. 

Demetrius Walden, 32, is charged with robbery by snatching and elderly abuse.  

The investigation is still ongoing as police are unaware if Walden was involved in additional crimes.  

“If there are any other unreported incidents, then contact police.” Knifer added. 

Without help from local shoppers and business owners, Knifer pointed out that the case would have been prolonged. 

“I just appreciate the community’s assistance in helping to apprehend this guy, because we would have never known if he was intending on committing more crimes, but due to the fast apprehension, we were able to solve this case very quickly,” he said.

Especially during the holiday season, Knifer urges all residents to be cautious and vigilant.

“We encourage as people are out Christmas shopping for people to be aware of their surroundings,” he said. “Report any suspicious activity — it may deter some of that criminal behavior.”