ABBOTSFORD Police have arrested 29-year-old Peter Jewhurst after it was alleged that he robbed a woman in her 70’s of her purse.  

On August 20 at 8:38 a.m., Abbotsford Police officers were advised of an incident which had just occurred in the 32700-block of South Fraser Way.  It was reported that as an elderly woman loaded groceries into her vehicle, a male grabbed the her purse and then fled on foot.

Two citizens observed the theft. One witness saw the suspect throw the purse into some bushes and then retrieve it. The other witness followed the suspect, providing updates to police.  Police arrested Jewhurst approximately one block away from the scene.

The purse was returned to the victim who, luckily, was not injured.

Jewhurst has been charged with assault, theft and uttering threats.  He will remain in custody until his court appearance at the end of August.

Police said Jewhurst has an extensive criminal history, including charges of assault, assault with a weapon, possession of restricted weapon, robbery, failure to comply with court orders, possession of stolen property, and uttering a forged document.

“We thank the citizens who responded so quickly to help this lady.  Their actions assisted greatly in the retrieval of her purse and the arrest of the suspect,” said Sgt. Judy Bird, Media Relations Officer.

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