Dear Editor:As I was shopping at Stater Bros. one day last week, my purse was stolen from the shopping cart. A woman diverted my attention and within a matter of a few seconds my purse was gone. I screamed loudly, but she had left the store. Store employees tried to help but there was little they could do but call the police. I would like to give my thanks and appreciation to Downey Police Department officer Ruth Valenzuela for all she did to try to help me. She and I both realized it was a pretty hopeless case. Since this has happened to me, I have found out that a similar incident occurred at Ralph's on Firestone Boulevard. I am writing this letter to let people know that there are thieves out there preying on seniors in Downey, and they need to be aware of this. This has been the most devastating thing that has ever happened to me. I have spent hours on the phone reporting the loss of credit cards, cell phone, driver's license and having the locks changed at our home. All of this has been tedious and stressful. -- Cleo Latimer, Downey

********** Published: September 30, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 24