Belmont Thief Steals Woman's Purse From Unlocked Car: Police

BELMONT, CA — A suspected Belmont thief was nabbed across the Bay after allegedly stealing a woman's purse from her car and then using her credit cards to go shopping. Belmont police say 37-year-old Matthew Hunt of Castro Valley was arrested on a charge of possessing stolen property, but burglary, credit card fraud and identity theft charges are pending.

A woman reported that her purse was stolen around 9:30 a.m. Friday in the 2700 bock of Ponce Avenue, according to Belmont Police Capt. Patrick Halleran. She had apparently left the bag in her unlocked car overnight while it was parked in front of her house.

"Belmont Police investigators were able to trace the victim's credit cards, which were used later in the day at several locations in Belmont and the East Bay city of San Leandro," Halleran said in a news release.

Thanks to some help from the San Leandro Police Department, Hunt was found later the same day and arrested, Halleran said.

"Belmont Police would like to remind the public not to leave valuables in vehicles and to lock your vehicle, even if it is parked in your driveway or in front of your home," the captain said. "If you are the victim of a crime, it is important to report it as soon as it is discovered, as was done in this case. Belmont Police would also like to thank the San Leandro Police for their cooperation during this investigation."

— Image courtesy Belmont Police Department