El Paso police say a bystander stepped in when an 85-year-old woman was targeted during a reported robbery in progress along the 5900 block of Mesa on Wednesday, detaining a suspect until officers arrived and took him into custody. The man now faces theft and drug possession charges, according to investigators.
Suspect Arrested After Good Samaritan Steps In
According to a Facebook post from the El Paso Police Department, the first responding officer found the suspect already detained by a good Samaritan and then placed him under arrest. The post identifies the suspect as Jacob Hayden Kennedy Smyth and states that he was booked on charges of theft of property greater than or equal to $750 and less than $2,500 (enhanced) and possession of a controlled substance, Penalty Group 2, less than 1 gram. Police said the victim was an 85-year-old woman and that officers responded to the 5900 block of Mesa after a robbery-in-progress call came in.
Police Applaud Help but Urge Caution
The department credited the quick action of the good Samaritan with helping wrap up the case on the scene, but it also used the incident as a reminder that playing hero can be risky. In the post, officers urged residents to “call 911, be a good witness, and avoid physical confrontation if possible,” underscoring that they would rather people share information than put themselves in harm’s way. The post did not include bond information or a court date for Smyth.
How To Report Tips And Where To Find Help
Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact emergency services or reach out to the El Paso Police Department through its non-emergency channels. The department notes on its website that it offers online tools for submitting tips and registering security cameras. The El Paso Police Department lists 911 for emergencies and (915) 832-4400 for non-emergencies. Investigators did not immediately release additional details about the investigation.
The case highlights how older residents can be especially vulnerable to opportunistic crime and how complicated it can be when bystanders decide to intervene. Police say anyone who witnesses an incident or has potentially useful video or information should contact authorities rather than confront suspects on their own.
