Woman Caught Stealing Purse on Video Arrested
Spokane Valley Investigative Unit (SVIU) Detectives identified and arrested 29-year-old Rachael P. Ward-White after surveillance video showing Ward-White stealing a victim’s purse was broadcast by a local news station. Ward-White was charged with Theft 2nd Degree but additional charges are expected as this investigation continues.
On November 25, 2016, a victim reported she was shopping at the Spokane Valley Goodwill around 7:00 p.m. when someone stole her purse from her shopping cart. The victim’s purse contained her cell phone, an IPad, cash and other personal items.
On December 1, 2016, KXLY News aired the surveillance video of the suspect brazenly stealing the victim’s purse during their news report regarding holiday season property crimes.
SVIU Detectives investigating the theft received tips regarding the suspect’s identity and on December 7, 2016, Detectives located Ward-White at an apartment complex in Spokane Valley and took her into custody for Theft 2nd Degree.
During this investigation, Detectives learned the vehicle Ward-White was driving was stolen. They also located a substance believed to be Methamphetamine and additional items believed to be evidence of Identity Theft.
Ward-White, who has a fairly extensive history of property crimes dating back to 2003, was booked into the Spokane County Jail for Theft 2nd Degree for the original theft investigation.
Detectives continue to investigate new information and evidence located at the time of Ward-White’s arrest and believe additional charges will be filed in the near future.