Saturday, September 13, 2008

Gerald & Deborah Root- Purse Snatchers


This charming duo steal from handicapped elderly people....


GLENS FALLS, N.Y. -- "I don't strap it down. I try to keep it shut and I usually put something on top of it so it’s kind of hidden," said Tammy Albrecht.

We caught up with Tammy as she was loading up her SUV. She explained how she watches her wallet after hearing about the arrests of Gerald Root, 48, and Deborah Root, 51. Back in August, the couple did some shopping of their own. According to police, they robbed an elderly couple’s purse from the Wal-Mart in Queensbury.

"Inside the purse were credit cards, cell phone, cash and other personal documents," said Lieutenant Shawn Lamouree of the Warren County Sherriff’s Department.

With the help of surveillance video, police tracked them to their home on Henry Street in Lake George. They've both been charged with grand larceny.

Back at Wal-Mart, people can't believe the event even took place, especially when the victims were using a motorized handicapped shopping cart.

"I'm an elderly person and I'm concerned, but not everyone's like me," said Peter Faroane of Bolton Landing.

"It's a shame that people would steal and stuff. It's a shame that we're in this situation," said Peter Blair of Warrensburg.

"That's just crazy. They're supposed to look out for each other, not rob from each other," said Albrecht.

While the couple’s belongings have been returned, $800 is still missing. And with the notion your purse could be nabbed at any time, Albrecht has some advice.

"Shut it, latch it, keep it on you I would say," Albrecht said.


1 comment:

Anonymous said...

omg. I knew these people and their kids a few years ago and found this article when I searched the name because I wanted to get in touch with them again. I had always loved jerry and deb', trusted them with my kids and have fond memories of the wonderful people they were... it is hard to believe this has happened and it saddens me.