ELLSWORTH (AP) – Police say a 35-year-old woman has been charged with felony theft for allegedly stealing purses during a high school graduation ceremony.

Ellsworth Police Chief John DeLeo told the Bangor Daily News that Erica Atcherson of Milbridge rifled through purses that had been left in the Ellsworth High School cafeteria Saturday evening as the seniors received their diplomas down the hall.

DeLeo said school staff members called police after spotting the woman going through the purses.

DeLeo said police arrested Atcherson at a nearby mall, recovering $381 in cash as well as driver’s licenses, gift cards, clothing, a digital camera, a cell phone, an iPod and other items.

Jail officials said Atcherson has been released on bail.

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Information from: Bangor Daily News, http://www.bangornews.com

AP-ES-06-19-09 0653EDT