Brazen bag snatch on 92-year-old after pokies win
A man is in custody after being charged over a brazen bag snatch on an elderly woman in her 90s.
The 92-year-old grandmother was heading home after winning big on the pokies at her local RSL in Fairfield when she was caught up in a frightening encounter she never expected.
Esmie doesn't want to show her face but told 7 News she was winning on the pokies during a rare day out to Fairfield RSL when she was spotted by a brazen thief who watched her collect around $500.
"I'm okay - but I'm still under shock," she said.
"Very shaken up."
He then tailed her as she headed home.
The 31-year-old followed Esmie all the way down the street before he grabbed her bag from behind and then took off towards a nearby park.
"I saw him running," she told 7 News Sydney, adding that she didn't see his face.
But the bag snatcher was captured on security video outside the club.
"All bag snatchers are fairly cowardly attack but to do it on a 92-year-old lady is quite shocking for the police here at Fairfield and the community," said Detective Inspector Stuart Cadden.
Thuan Huynh (Ton Hwan) was charged with stealing and pleaded guilty when he faced Fairfield local court.
He is telling police he's already spent the money - gambling.
He was refused bail.
Esmie hopes by speaking out, other thieves will be dettered from committing a similar crime.
"I feel sorry for him - really - I'm sorry, if he only came and told me granny if I can have something - I would have given him something," Esmie told 7 News Sydney.
National news break – September 2
