Police say suspect rammed patrol cars after robbery

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SAVANNAH, GA (WTOC) - Savannah-Chatham Metro Police have one man in custody after they say he snatched the purse of a 74-year-old woman and attempted to ram police officers.

Just after 1:30 p.m., officers were called to Oglethorpe Mall after receiving reports of a purse snatching. A 74-year-old woman was walking to her car when 45-year-old Walter Lee Smith snatched her purse and took off in a Honda Accord. A good Samaritan was able to tell police a description of the car, tag number and direction of travel.

Officers began searching the area and located Smith traveling south on White Bluff Road. They attempted to box him by closing down the intersection at White Bluff Road and Derenne Avenue but were unsuccessful. A pursuit ensued until the vehicle entered the 12 Oaks shopping center. But police say Smith was able to slip away, deliberately trying to run down two officers and ramming three police cars in the process.

Police say the pursuit finally came to an end behind Heard Elementary where Smith was apprehended. Smith, who was convicted for robbery by sudden snatching in 2006 was arrested and taken into custody. He is being charged with Robbery by sudden snatching, two counts of aggravated assault on a police officer, elder abuse, felony obstruction, felony fleeing to elude, and numerous traffic offenses.