Melrosian Arrested on Purse Snatching Charge After Good Samaritan Gives Chase

arrested a 39-year-old Melrose man on Monday in Back Bay after he allegedly stole a pocketbook and was chased down by a Good Samaritan and an off-duty cop, according to a Boston Police press release.

At about 7:18 p.m on Monday, Boston Police officers responded to a call for an officer in need of assistance in the area of 170 Commonwealth Ave., according to the release. On arrival, officers found a shirtless suspect in the custody of an off-duty officer.

The suspect was wanted for stealing a purse from a woman at at 181 Newbury St. in Boston. The victim told police that she was seated at a table when she felt an unknown person brush by her, according to the release. In short time, she turned around and noticed that her pocketbook was missing.

The woman told police she jumped out of her seat and ran towards the front door. Once there, a witness approached and asked, “Are you looking for your bag?” When the victim replied 'yes,' the witness pointed to an individual carrying the victim’s bag and then proceeded to chase the suspect.

While chasing behind the suspect, the Good Samaritan observed the suspect drop the pocketbook, the release said. The bag was later recovered by the victim. As the chase was unfolding, an off-duty police officer observed the Good Samaritan chasing the suspect. As a result, the off-duty officer joined the chase and helped the Good Samaritan subdue the suspect. After a physical altercation, the off-duty officer was able to take the suspect into custody.         

Offices arrested Sean Ventre, 39, of Melrose and charged him with larceny and resisting arrest.