2 Charged In Tewksbury Purse-Snatching Crime: Police

TEWKSBURY — Two people were charged in connection with an unarmed robbery outside a Tewksbury bank Wednesday morning, according to police. Police received a report of a purse-snatching that had occurred at 9:42 a.m. in the parking lot of a bank at 1527 Main St.

Officers responded and found that a 61-year-old woman was pushed to the ground as her purse was taken by two people. The victim was taken to a local hospital for treatment of injuries.

Officers gathered a description of both suspects and the vehicle that they fled in and broadcast those descriptions to other officers.

Police patrol officers found a vehicle matching the description in the area of 1928 Main St. and conducted a traffic stop.

An investigation led to both suspects being identified and arrested. This crime was not a random act of violence, as those involved were acquainted prior in the day, according to police.

“I am extremely grateful for the quick action of our patrol officers who were not only able to bring these individuals into custody, but also able to retrieve the victim's stolen items," Chief Ryan Columbus said in a statement.

Keith Fauth, 50, of Haverhill, and Christine Brogna, 51, of Laconia, NH, were charged with unarmed robbery of a person over 60, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon on a person over 60, and assault and battery on a person over 60. They were scheduled to be arraigned in Lowell Superior Court on Wednesday.