An Izard County man has been arrested for allegedly stealing a purse at Baxter Regional Medical Center. Photos of 50-year-old Stephen Townsend of Wideman were posted on social media by Mountain Home police to help identify the suspect who was later recognized by a Flippin police officer during a traffic stop.
According to the probable cause affidavit in the case, it’s alleged Townsend took a purse from a chair at the hospital. Video surveillance shows Townsend taking the purse and carrying it through the facility.
A credit card from the purse was used to purchase a phone card but an attempt to use the card to purchase gas was unsuccessful.
The theft occurred April 16 and the photos of the suspect were shared on social media. On Tuesday, a Flippin officer made a traffic stop and identified Townsend as the suspect.
Townsend is charged with three felonies including theft of property, criminal attempt and forgery. He is free after posting a $10,000 bond.
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