PITTSBURGH — Police arrested a woman who they say is the mastermind behind several purse robberies in Pittsburgh’s Shadyside neighborhood, including one that sent a 77-year-old woman to the hospital.
According to a criminal complaint obtained by Channel 11 News, Briana Montaque set up the crimes.
Police said surveillance video shows Montaque and another woman using stolen credit cards at stores.
"Briana appeared to be the mastermind of converting the stolen credit cards by purchasing and loading gift cards to disperse among other suspects involved in the robberies," the complaint says. "Briana never gets physically involved in the robberies but has been seen to be in the area when they are conducted, providing transportation."
Jacquet Pope Esposito, 26, of Wilkinsburg, was arrested earlier this month and charged with robbery. A 17-year-old girl was also charged with robbery, criminal conspiracy and access device fraud in connection with the cases.
One incident was reported around 4:40 p.m. Oct. 7. Police said a 31-year-old woman was walking on Ellsworth Avenue when another woman approached her from behind and grabbed her purse.
Police said the victim chased the thief and encountered a second woman on Felix Avenue who was holding a gun. A good Samaritan was able to get the victim's purse back.
The victim identified Pope Esposito in a lineup as the woman who pointed the gun at her.
A second incident was reported around 2 p.m. Oct. 18. A 77-year-old woman was injured when two women stole her purse at the intersection of Ellsworth Avenue and Spahr Street, police said.
A third robbery was reported Oct. 31. Police said a 22-year-old woman was punched in the back of the head on Ellsworth Avenue.
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