Teens Plead Not Guilty to Purse Snatchings

Two 18-year-old men accused of purse snatchings targeting elderly shoppers in Newport Beach pleaded not guilty Wednesday.

Michal Polasek of Newport Beach and Joshua Taylor Faber of Costa Mesa were arrested Monday and booked on conspiracy to commit petty theft after police responded to a call of a purse snatching in the area of Irvine Avenue and Westcliff Drive.

Kathy Lowe, police spokeswoman, said an elderly woman put her purse in front of her shopping cart and walked toward the Ralphs grocery store. Both suspects allegedly approached her from behind, grabbed her purse and ran.

Polasek was detained at the scene by a witness until police arrived. Faber was contacted a short time later by detectives. Police believe Polasek and Faber are also responsible for purse snatchings from elderly women on March 24 and Sunday in the area of the Westcliff Plaza. 

Anyone with information about these crimes are asked to call Newport Beach Police Det. Tracy McKenzie at 949-644-3761.

Police Safety Tips

• Avoid placing your purse in a shopping cart
• Never walk away from your purse or leave it unattended
• Carry only small amounts of cash and only the credit cards you plan to use
• Don't leave jewelry or valuables in your purse.

-- City News Service contributed to this story.