Alleged home invasion thief recognized as grandson

ALBUQUERQUE, June 17 (UPI) -- Albuquerque police said they captured an alleged masked intruder when he was recognized by the homeowner, his grandmother.

Investigators said the victim told officers a man wearing a purple bandanna over his face broke into her home through the back early Friday and she immediately suspected the man of being her grandson, Thomas Clark, 22, KRQE-TV, Albuquerque, reported Monday.

The woman said the intruder grabbed her and she tore off his bandanna during the struggle, revealing her grandson's face.

Clark, who left with the woman's purse, was arrested about 4 hours later at his parents' home. He told police he robbed his grandmother because two of his friends convinced him it was a good way to get money for a casino trip.

The victim, who told police Clark broke into her home and stole a TV last year, said she was recovering from cuts and bruises to her wrist and neck.

Clark was arraigned on felony charges Saturday and ordered held in lieu of $15,000 bail.