Police Seek Philly Man in Connection with Bryn Mawr, Wayne Purse Thefts

Radnor Police are searching for a Philadelphia man in connection with a series of thefts from women's handbags throughout Wayne and one in Bryn Mawr, according to a press release March 31. 

Both Radnor and West Whiteland Police Departments have identified Daniel Simmons, 48, as a suspect in several thefts from restaurants and shops and each secured warrants for his arrest.

Simmons is suspected of removing wallets, credit cards and purses from handbags, and then using the credit cards at various retail stores. Several customers at Wayne restaurants and bars have complained of stolen purses and handbags throughout March.

On March 7, Radnor Police responded to Christopher's Restaurant, where a woman said someone had stolen her purse and later used her credit cards at several retail shops in the area. Police secured video from Target, Kohl’s and Sports Authority, and said Simmons was using stolen credit cards at each location.

On March 20, Radnor Police received a report on credit cards thefts from a customer of Gulifty’s Restaurant in Bryn Mawr. The cards were used at the Bed Bath and Beyond store located at 550 E. Lancaster Ave. in Saint David’s. Video obtained from the store depicted a male and female using the credit cards—the male was later identified as Simmons, according to police.

That same day, police received reports of another credit card theft at Christopher's. It was found the card was used at Kohl's, and video surveillance identified Simmons, police said. 

Simmons is wanted on identity theft, access device fraud, receiving stolen property and forgery charges. Also known as Daniel Dudley, Simmons' last known address was at 5509 Haverford Ave. in Philadelphia. He drives a 2002 blue Buick PA/HSF-4890.

He is also wanted on armed robberies charges from Philadelphia Police. 

Police advise people to not approach Simmons and to call 9-1-1.