LAPD Arrests the Suspect Wanted for a 1980 Deadly Purse Snatch

October 18, 2010

Los Angeles:  Earlier in the month, Scientific Investigation Division, Latent Prints Unit identified a man wanted for murdering a woman in 1980.  On October 15, 2010, LAPD Robbery Homicide Detectives arrested the suspect in Rochester, New York and extradited him back to Los Angeles.

On November 28, 1980, Ruth Roberts, was attempting to enter her home when she was struck on the head by an unknown suspect.  During the assault the suspect stole her purse, left her with life-threatening injuries and unconscious.  Mrs. Roberts was transported to a local hospital where she remained in the Intensive Care Unit until her death on December 4, 1980.

Mrs. Roberts’ property was recovered a few days after the incident.  The Los Angeles Police Department’s Scientific Investigation Division, Latent Prints Unit developed several finger prints from Mrs. Roberts’ stolen property.  Through the finger print lifts, the suspect in this case was identified as Albert McKee.  The Los Angeles District Attorney’s office filed one count of Murder and one count of Robbery against McKee.  McKee was arrested in Rochester, New York, with the assistance of the Rochester Police Department and was extradited to Los Angeles on October 15, 2010. He is currently in custody at the Los Angeles County Jail.

Anyone who may have information related to this case is encouraged to call Los Angeles Police Department, Robbery Homicide Division Detectives Tennell or Romero at 213-486-6890.  After-hours and on weekends, calls may be directed to a 24-hour toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247).  Callers may also text “CRIMES” with a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on Web tips.  When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with “LAPD.” Tipsters may remain anonymous.