Man Robbed 94-Year-Old Woman of $42, Felony Charge Filed: Philly DA

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia authorities have charged a 20-year-old man for the robbery and assault of a 94-year-old woman last month.

District Attorney Larry Krasner and members of the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office Elder Justice Unit said Janhyi Boyd, 20, was charged with felony robbery, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, and evading arrest in connection with an Oct. 18 incident in a Germantown pharmacy.

According to authorities, that day, Boyd went into a Rite Aid on the 100 block of West Chelten Avenue and approached a 94-year-old woman who was waiting for a prescription to be filled by the pharmacy.

The DA's office said Boyd grabbed the woman's purse and tried to yank it from her.

The woman held on, however, and Boyd then dragged her across the floor, authorities said.

An envelope with cash spilled out from her purse, and that's when authorities allege Boyd pocketed the $42 that was in the envelope.

Police showed up and took Boyd into custody as he tried to flee.

"I want residents to know that our Elder Justice Unit is committed to holding accountable defendants who prey upon some of our city's most vulnerable," Krasner said. "Assistant District Attorney Alex Blumenthal, who supervises the EJU, will prosecute this case and ensure that Mr. Boyd is held accountable for assaulting and taking advantage of this 94-year-old woman."

Any immediately dangerous crime perpetrated against our city's seniors should be reported to law enforcement by calling 911.

Anyone who also has information about the neglect or exploitation of older adults to contact the Elder Abuse Multidisciplinary Team Hotline at 215-686-5710.