UWPD seeks information on purse thief

The UW Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying a woman who is suspected of stealing purses from the offices of UW–Madison and UW-Milwaukee employees.

On Jan. 24, a UW-Extension employee reported that her purse had been stolen from her office, 432 N. Lake St., between noon and 4 p.m. On Feb. 27, an employee reported that her purse had been taken from her office in Van Hise Hall between 2 and 3:30 p.m.

Police say the thefts were similar to those committed at UW-Milwaukee. In both cases, the woman assumed the identity of her victims by using their credit cards to obtain cash from area banks and make purchases at gas stations.

Members of the university community and local businesses are being asked to be on the lookout for the woman. If you think you might know her or have any information about the thefts, call the UW police at 262-2957 and ask for Detective Anthony Curtis or Officer John McCaughtry.