Police have arrested two individuals they believe are responsible for recent thefts at the Maple Valley library.

Detective Jeffrey Johnson said a 22-year-old female and 25-year-old male are believed to be responsible for three instances of purse and wallet thefts that occurred May 20, May 23 and June 4.

Johnson said the cases will be joined and sent to the prosecutor’s office for review, with felony charge recommendations: three counts of second-degree theft, two counts of forgery, and one count of second-degree possession of stolen property.

Maple Valley resident Kelsey Jones, who frequents the library, had her purse stolen June 4 while she used a library computer. Jones said police arrived within five minutes of calling 911 and were able to reclaim her wallet, credit cards, gift cards and her ID – delivering it to her home less than two hours after the incident.

Johnson said police had surveillance footage of the two individuals using previous victims’ credit cards and was able to identify them walking out of the library on June 4 following Jones’ reported theft. Police found the reported stolen credit card on the female suspect while she attempted to make purchases at QFC and a stolen gift card on the male, who was located behind the supermarket.

Jones credited collaboration from police and the library for the apprehension.

“I was mulling through the events that transpired, realizing that this kind of story so very rarely has a happy ending. But mine did!” Jones said in an email.

Johnson said the arrests were made thanks to some good police work, good timing and luck.

“All that came together and we got it,” he said. “It worked out well.”

Johnson still recommends due diligence in order to keep personal items safe and protected.

“I don’t think people should put their guard down for things like this,” he said. “All it takes is an opportunity.”