Pair Accused of Stealing Purse From Blue Ribbon Cleaners

An Essex County pair is accused of stealing a purse in April from the Blue Ribbon Cleaners, Garwood Police said.

Shakira Williams, 37, of Newark, and Sawab Wright, 43, East Orange, were each charged with theft.

Garwood Police said the purse contained $630 and belonged to the store owner.

"During the investigation, video surveillance was gathered which showed a black female came into the store at the time the purse went missing," according to the report. "The suspect distracted the store owner while a second individual came into the rear door, and took the purse."

Police identified the individuals by comparing the theft to similar incidents in other towns.

Williams was charged with theft and is currently in jail on $25,000 bail. Sawab Wright was also charged with theft and remains at-large as a warrant for his arrest has been issued.