2 people arrested, accused of stealing 83-year-old woman’s wallet

WINNSBORO, S.C. (WOLO)– Fairfield County deputies have arrested two people after an investigating into the theft of an 83-year-old woman’s belongings, says FCSO.

On September 24, an 83-year-old woman was shopping at the Dollar General in Winnsboro when she was approached by a female suspect who engaged in conversation with her.

While the woman was distracted, a male suspect removed her phone and wallet from her pocketbook, which was sitting in her shopping cart, say deputies.

The suspects then left the store in the same vehicle they arrived in together, according to FCSO.

Following the theft, the victim’s stolen financial transaction card was used at a nearby convenience store to obtain cash through two separate transactions.

Additional unauthorized purchases were also made using the stolen card.

Through an investigation involving assistance from Winnsboro Dept. of Public Safety, surveillance footage, vehicle identification, and interviews, Fairfield County investigators identified the suspects as Shante Nicole Young and Brian Jarrell Watkins, both of Winnsboro.

Both individuals have since been arrested in connection with the incident.

Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office encourages shoppers to keep purses, wallets, and other valuables secured and within their immediate control, particularly when approached or distracted by unfamiliar individuals.

Should you have any additional information about this incident contact Lt. Barry Gilbert at the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office at 803-635-4141.