An Auburn Hills woman, Lynsie Marion Leinenger, 37, has been charged with multiple felonies for allegedly stealing purses from shoppers in two separate incidents at grocery stores in Rochester Hills. She was arraigned on charges of unarmed robbery and larceny from a person, according to Audacy.
The Oakland County Sheriff's Office reported that the first alleged theft occurred at a Kroger on Livernois, where Leinenger is accused of taking a purse from a 64-year-old woman’s shopping cart and fleeing. A second incident reportedly took place at a Meijer on Marketplace Circle, where she allegedly grabbed another purse and was confronted by the 71-year-old owner. Sheriff Michael Bouchard described the cases as a reminder that some individuals target others, particularly the elderly, during the holiday season, as reported by The Detroit News.
As per MLive, the struggle at Meijer ended when Leinenger fell and injured her knee, allowing the victim to retrieve her purse before law enforcement arrived and took Leinenger into custody. Magistrate Karen Holt set her bond at $10,000, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for December 23. Reports also indicate that Leinenger has prior convictions for home invasion and uttering and publishing.
As the case moves forward, local authorities are reminding the public to stay vigilant with their belongings, particularly during busy shopping times. Sheriff Michael Bouchard advised residents to remain aware of their surroundings and to avoid leaving purses unattended in shopping carts. The sheriff’s office is continuing its efforts to hold Leinenger accountable for her alleged actions.
