Police are searching for a mother who had attempted to shoplift merchandise at a T.J. Maxx department store with another adult accomplice in Greenburgh, New York, but forgot one important item in her heist, her 8-month old son.
While trying to steal, Suzette Gruber aged 39, ran out of the store when she thought she would be caught, panicked and left her son sitting in his stroller inside the store. The other woman also ran and has yet to be identified.
“The mother panicked … and just took off. It’s sad,” said Greenburgh police officer, Lt. Desmond Martin who also said that she left her cellular phone and purse behind.
Police say they will keep the child in protective custody while they investigate the incident. A man has claimed to be the father, presenting a birth certificate to police in an attempt to regain custody of the baby. He claims Gruber called him and told him to pick the boy up. Police are still working to confirm the man’s claims. Reports say that he does not know Gruber whereabouts.
Hidden inside the stroller’s compartments were knives and various teapots that were worth nearly US$200.
Gruber has been charged with stealing before. In March of 2007, Gruber stole clothing from a mall and was charged with larceny and endangering the welfare of a child. According to reports her then 2-week old son and 14-year old daughter were with her when she was arrested in March.
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tonysprout said,
Yet she still had custody? What a wacky fun place New York family court must be!
October 31, 2007 at 7:39 am