Man Held in Series of Purse Thefts

A 39-year-old Van Nuys man was being held Tuesday in connection with a series of purse snatchings in the northeast San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles police said.

Anthony Douglas Haylock was arrested Monday night in Sylmar after police watched him get into a stolen car that matched the description of a car used in at least two purse snatchings, police said.

“He’s suspected of several purse snatchings and other crimes,” Detective Mike Wynn said.

Lt. Bernard D. Conine said police have been investigating a series of purse snatches and thefts from cars in recent weeks in which the victims were followed by a second vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle jumped from the car and grabbed a purse or belongings then sped away, police said. On Monday night officers found a stolen car parked near Hubbard Street and Dronfield Avenue. After learning that it was similar to a car used in the thefts, the officers began watching the vehicle. About 9 p.m. Haylock allegedly got into the vehicle and sped away when officers tried to stop him. The chase ended several blocks away when Haylock stopped at Desmond Street and Glenoaks Boulevard.

Haylock was arrested on suspicion of robbery and was being held in lieu of $15,000 bail at the Foothill Division Jail.

Conine said investigators were attempting to determine how many thefts were part of the series and if there is evidence that might link Haylock to other incidents.