ASHLAND, Ore. (Jul. 29, 2026) — A Grants Pass man was arrested Monday evening after police say he pulled a woman from her vehicle, stole her purse and attempted to flee on foot before being located walking along Interstate 5.
According to the Ashland Police Department, officers responded at approximately 6:55 p.m. on July 27 to the 2300 block of Ashland Street after receiving reports of a strong-arm robbery in a parking area behind a local business.
Witnesses told officers a man forcibly pulled a female victim from her vehicle and stole her purse before running through an open field toward Interstate 5.
Ashland officers, assisted by the Talent Police Department, began searching the area and quickly located the suspect walking northbound along Interstate 5 near mile marker 15.5. Following an investigation, officers arrested 39-year-old Michael Scott Todnem of Grants Pass.
Police said officers retraced the suspect’s path and recovered some of the stolen property. Investigators also determined the suspect likely intended to steal the victim’s vehicle in addition to taking her purse.
The victim did not report any injuries during the incident.
Investigators said officers also obtained video evidence that supports the charges.
Todnem was lodged at the Jackson County Jail on charges of third-degree robbery, unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle, fourth-degree assault, harassment, third-degree theft and second-degree disorderly conduct. He remained in custody as of the department’s release.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has additional information is asked to contact the Ashland Police Department at 541-482-5211.
All suspects are believed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law
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