Suspect allegedly robs Fairway shopper, attacks two people while attempting escape

NANUET – A 25-year-old woman was taken into police custody on Sunday after she reportedly stole a woman’s purse and assaulted two Fairway employees in a desperate attempt to escape from the Nanuet supermarket.

Justine Peterkin of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania reportedly took a shopper’s purse while it rested in the woman’s handbag. A loss prevention employee confronted her while she was pilfering the item, prompting Peterkin to slap the woman and attempt to run.

On her way out, another loss prevention employee attempted to physically prevent Peterkin’s escape. A struggle ensued during which the victim was reportedly bitten by Peterkin on his left hand, causing a laceration to his left hand.

Nonetheless, Peterkin was held in place until Clarkstown Police could arrive and make an arrest.

Police reported that along with the theft of the purse, which was successfully recovered with all of its contents, Peterkin also allegedly had fraudulent identification and credit cards.

Peterkin was charged with a slew of felony and misdemeanor charges which include robbery, assault, grand larceny and possession of a forged instrument. She has been transferred to Rockland County Jail, where she is being held on $25,000 bail.