GPD: Courageous bystanders thwart purse snatcher

Monday, May 19, 2025 - 12:50

GUILDERLAND — A man who snatched a woman’s purse at Stuyvesant Plaza on Sunday, police say, tried to flee but was stopped by bystanders.

Matthew Cattell, 32, of Guilderland, was charged with third-degree robbery, third- and fourth-degree grand larceny, third- and fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, third-degree menacing, and third-degree attempted assault.

Guilderland Police responded at about 4:07 p.m. on May 18, according to a release from the department, which said events unfolded this way:

Officers arrived at Stuyvesant Plaza at 1475 Western Ave. at about 4:07 p.m. on May 18 and found bystanders who had pursued Cattell had detained “the suspect until officers arrived on scene and took him into custody without further incident.”

Cattell was arraigned in Guilderland Town Court where he was released under the supervision of probation.

“The Guilderland Police Department would like to extend sincere gratitude to the bystanders whose quick actions helped ensure the suspect was apprehended and the victim was protected,” the release said. “Their courage and willingness to assist played a crucial role in this arrest.”

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