ELLSWORTH - Ellsworth Police have charged a woman for allegedly stealing purses during a high school graduation ceremony.

Erica Atcherson, 35, of Milbridge is charged with felony theft after police she rifled through purses left in the Ellsworth High School cafeteria as students received diplomas down the hall. Police Chief John Deleo says school staff members called police after spotting the woman going through the bags. Atcherson was arrested at a nearby mall. She had $381 in cash as well as driver’s licenses, gift cards, clothing, a digital camera, cell phone, and I-pod, and other items on her at the time of the arrest. Atcherson has been released on cash bail.