HAHNVILLE — Authorities in St. Charles are seeking a “person of interest” who allegedly snatched a purse from a shopper at the Wal-Mart store in Boutte.

Sheriff Champagne said the theft occurred Jan. 31.

He said the victim, a Luling woman, was shopping at the store when a suspect distracted her and allegedly removed her purse from her shopping cart.

Authorities want to question the woman shown in the surveillance photo above in connection with the incident.

It is possible that other suspects were involved in this incident.

Champagne said in a release that all citizens should exercise the following tips in an effort to keep their belongings safe:

– Never leave your purse unattended in a shopping cart.

– Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

– Make sure all valuables are tucked away and secured whether in your pockets or purse.

– Lock your vehicle at all times.

– Never leave valuables in plain view in your vehicle.

If anyone has any information regarding this person of interest or this incident, they should call Detective Dewhirst at 985-783-1135 or 985-783-6807.