13 WTHR - Indianapolis News |Second woman arrested in strong-armed robberies
Member Center:
Ashley SpraddlingSteve Jefferson/Eyewitness News
Indianapolis - All of the suspects in a recent string of attacks on older women are now in custody. Police picked up one of their robbery suspects at a funeral home Tuesday night.
Police arrested Ashley Spraddling Tuesday night. She had been on the run. Investigators say Laritha Martin already confessed to three strong-armed robberies.
Police say the suspects watched handicapped parking spaces for possible victims like Mary. She was at the Aldi store on East Washington Street on March 20th. She says the suspects snatched her purse and then ran over her with a car, injuring her leg. Mary, who did not wish to give her last name, said she didn't see anyone approaching until the suspect grabbed her purse.
Another victim suffered a heart attack after getting robbed.
Detectives have also arrested Ciara Duncan, Porta Harris, Shakkia Cunningham and Ashaawntee Potts in connection with the attacks.
Investigators say Laritha Martin, 25, confessed to their crime spree. They reportedly scouted handicapped parking spaces for victims and sometimes followed them home.
Police suspect they attacked an 83-year-old in her Burbank Road driveway. The caller told the dispatch operator that the attackers tore the straps off the woman's handbag, and pushed her down.
Crime Prevention Expert Shirley Purvitis says there's a common denominator that makes older people vulnerable to attacks.
"Being out alone or jeopardizing their safety because they are lonely," said Purvitis.
On Sunday, Ashley Spraddling called paramedics to her North Carollton Avenue home about her four-month-old not breathing. The baby girl did not survive. Eventually she showed up at a funeral home to inquire about her daughter's remains.
Anticipating funeral plans, police secretly watched Spraddling visit a local funeral home.
"They went inside and apprehended her on two different warrants for robbery and fraud," said Sgt. Matthew Mount, IMPD.
In addition to Spraddling's arrest, police are also questioning four other women.
Related story:
Comments Terms of Use: We welcome your participation in our community. Please keep your comments civil and on point. You must be at least 13 years of age to post comments. By submitting a comment, you agree to these
Terms of Service
You must be logged in to leave a comment. Login or register See all comments |
