Two Men Charged With Alleged South End Purse Snatching

A Milton man and a South Boston man were arraigned Monday in Boston Municipal Court after a foiled purse snatching on Sunday afternoon in Boston, according to Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley.

Derek Bouchard, 32 of Milton, and Sean Rumsey, 32 of South Boston, were charged with unarmed robbery and assault and battery.

According to a press release from the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office, Boston Police responded to a call in the area of West Newton and Tremont streets around 2 p.m. on Sunday where they found the two suspects being restrained by bystanders. Rumsey was reportedly being held face down by a 43-year-old South End resident.

An unknown man, who left the scene when police arrived, was detaining Bouchard. The Milton resident was holding a purse with a broken strap.

Another South End man, who called 911, was also on the scene.

Boston Police then learned that the 43-year-old man had parked his car in the area. While his girlfriend was taking groceries from the trunk, the man made a trip to a store around the corner.

According to the District Attorney’s office, Bouchard ran up to the woman, grabbing her purse.

“After a brief struggle, Bouchard allegedly pushed her to the ground, took her purse, and ran toward Shawmut [Avenue], where he was intercepted by the unknown Samaritan,” the release said.

The victim’s boyfriend then apprehended Rumsey, who appeared to be acting as a lookout, according to the report.

“We don’t want anyone to put themselves in harm’s way to stop a crime, but stories like this are a reminder that Boston is full of people who care about their neighbors and won’t hesitate to do the right thing,” Conley said. “They’re the quiet heroes who make this city great.”

According to the press release, both men had open probation warrants at the time of their arrest.

“Bouchard has breaking and entering convictions in Fall River, Lynn, Roxbury, and Woburn,” said Assistant District Attorney Justyna Miller via the release. “Rumsey has Boston convictions for shoplifting and receiving stolen goods.

Judege Tracy-Lee Lyons set the bail for both suspects at $1,500.

Bouchard was represented by attorney Kevin Ruderman and Rumsey by attorney Susan Neff. Bouchard and Rumsey will be back in court on December 7.