Cops arrested a man who they say assaulted a woman and stole her purse as she waited to enter church Wednesday afternoon.
According to authorities, a 46-year-old Paterson woman was standing outside of St. Brendan's Church, on Lakeview Avenue, shortly before 5 p.m., waiting to partake in the church’s Ash Wednesday festivities.
Officials say while the victim waited, a vehicle drove onto the sidewalk near where she was standing, exited the car and approached the victim with some type of metal object in his hand.
Police say the suspect went to snatch the victim’s purse but when she resisted, he assaulted her and ultimately pushed her to the ground.
The suspect took the purse, entered the vehicle, and fled the scene.
Detectives began investigating the incident and were able to develop a suspect within a few hours. Clifton detectives ultimately apprehended 21-year-old Marc Terwilliger, at his home in Fair Lawn at 11:30 p.m.
Police charged Terwilliger with Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. He was additionally charged with Forgery after it was discovered that he committed an act of fraud with a check belonging to the victim. C.D.S charges are pending at this time.
Officials say the victim sustained arm and leg injuries and was treated by Clifton Fire Department personnel.