Jupiter Woman Arrested for 2024 Purse Theft — Fingerprints and Flock Cameras Crack the Case

Jupiter Police have arrested a woman in connection with a purse theft and subsequent credit card fraud that took place in October 2024, with fingerprint evidence and Flock cameras ultimately leading to the charges.

According to the arrest affidavit, Chantel Chavette Johnson, 42, was arrested this week in connection with a theft that occurred on October 2, 2024. Police say Johnson and another woman approached a female victim at a Jupiter location. One woman distracted the victim while the other stole her purse.

Inside the purse was approximately $40 in cash, a driver's license, health insurance cards, and multiple credit and debit cards. Within a short time after the theft, the victim began receiving notifications that her cards were being used. Charges at a Staples in Jupiter totaled nearly $600 using two of the victim's cards. Cards were also used at a nearby Publix.

Surveillance footage from Staples proved to be the turning point in the investigation. The video showed Johnson picking up a $200 Home Depot gift card with her bare hands before putting it back. Jupiter Police collected the card and submitted it for fingerprint analysis — the results identified Johnson's fingerprints on it.

Investigators also used Flock cameras and other video sources to track a rented minivan that Johnson was traveling in at the time.

Johnson is charged with criminal use of personal identifying information, unlawful possession of a stolen credit card, and fraudulent use of a credit card.