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STATESVILLE, N.C. -- A Statesville teen is facing charges after he was caught breaking into cars during a funeral Monday.

Police say the 15-year-old stole purses from unlocked cars at the Oakwood Cemetery and made off with cash in broad daylight before officers arrested him.

A funeral worker told police he noticed the teen going in and out of vehicles at the cemetery during the graveside service.

“The witness got out of his vehicle and confronted the suspect and told him he needed to lay these items down and to stay there, that he was going to call the police,” said Capt. Bryan Johnson, of the Statesville Police Department.

But the suspect took off. Police later arrested him about a half a mile away in a nearby creek bed.

Police say thieves are more likely to prey on victims who leave valuables in unlocked vehicles, no matter where they are.

“It's always important to lock your car at shopping centers, malls and even a funeral, of course, now,” Johnson said.

Because the suspect is younger than 16, police aren't releasing his name. The teen is charged with breaking and entering a motor vehicle and running from police.