Lombard police say they nabbed purse-snatcher

Lombard police say they have nabbed a purse snatcher who also is linked to two other robberies in DuPage County.

Reginald L. Smith, 39, of the 200 block of West Lexington Street in Chicago, has been charged with one count of robbery after being arrested Tuesday at a gas station at Ahrens and St. Charles roads, Lt. Tom Wirsing said.

Wirsing said Smith also has been connected to another Lombard purse snatching and one in Downers Grove.

Wirsing said police received a call that a 51-year-old woman was knocked to the ground and her purse snatched at a store at Stewart and New streets.

He said witnesses saw the suspect drive away in a tan sedan with no front license plate.

Wirsing said a suspect matching the description and the car was seen getting gas at Ahrens and St. Charles.

Police arrested the man at the station and took him in for questioning.

During questioning, police say Smith admitted to that purse snatching, as well as an incident that took place July 24 on the 200 block of South Grace Street.

Wirsing said Downers Grove police also have linked Smith to a robbery there, though charges have not been filed in that case.

Wirsing said additional charges are expected after the investigation is completed.