Man arrested in Southwest Ranches purse-snatching

Robert Flagg Jr. stole purse while victim pumped gas, police say

DAVIE, Fla. – A 19-year-old man who smashed the window of a vehicle and stole a 64-year-old woman's purse has been arrested, Davie police Capt. Dale Engle said.

Robert Flagg Jr. made his first court appearance Sunday.

He was arrested after an extensive investigation by Davie police, Miami-Dade police and the Broward Sheriff's Office.

Police believe Flagg took Patricia Coxe's purse on June 2 while she was pumping gas at a Shell gas station off Sheridan Street and Dykes Road.

Coxe attempted to chase after Flagg, police said, and at one point grabbed the purse through a window.

Police said the driver didn't stop and dragged Coxe through the parking lot.

Coxe suffered bruises to her arms. 

The driver of the vehicle used in the robbery remains at large. 

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.