Police Seek Help Identifying Alleged Purse Snatcher In Torrance

TORRANCE (CBSLA.com) — Police released a sketch of man in his mid-20s Thursday that is wanted for allegedly assaulting a woman, and stealing her purse.

According to the Torrance Police Department, a female victim was walking home around 6:40 p.m. on Feb. 3, on the south sidewalk of Redondo Beach Boulevard, when she noticed a man sitting inside a parked, older four door vehicle.

Police explained that as the victim walked closer to where the vehicle was parked, a suspect exited the car, allegedly pointed a handgun at the victim and grabbed her crotch.

According to officers, the suspect then ordered the victim to get inside the vehicle, pushed her, and forcibly stole her purse as she fell to the ground.

The suspect then got back in the vehicle and fled from the scene in the dark-colored vehicle.

Detectives described the first suspect as a Hispanic man has black hair, brown eyes, and a mustache. He stands no taller than 5-foot-8, and weighs no more than 180 pounds.

The suspect was last seen wearing a dark shirt, blue and white shorts, and was armed with a black, semi-automatic handgun.

The second suspect was only described as a Hispanic man.

Detectives sought the public's help in identifying both suspects accused in this crime.

Anyone with information regarding the identity of either suspect is urged to contact the Torrance Police Department at (310) 618-5570.