Watsonville Man Accused of Snatching Purse Filled with Christmas Cash Arrested

SANTA CRUZ, CA — A Watsonville man was arrested after he stole a purse filled with cash meant for Christmas gifts, according to police. They say he snatched the purse from a woman who was waiting at a Santa Cruz bus stop last week. Witnesses called 911 at about 1 p.m. on Dec. 12 to report the theft in the area of Pacific and Beach streets.

Officers set up a perimeter and detained 40-year-old Anthony Rodriguez of Watsonville, who matched the suspect description given by witnesses. According to police, the cash was discovered on Rodriguez.

Rodriguez was arrested and the Christmas cash and purse were returned to the victim.

Photo courtesy Santa Cruz Police Department via Facebook