Police are searching for the man who knocked over a 99-year-old woman and stole her purse while she was delivering homemade Christmas cookies to a senior center in Windsor.

"This guy took advantage and made her a victim," said Capt. Kelvan Kearse, of the Windsor Police Department.

Authorities said the woman was bringing treats to the LP Wilson Community Center, at 599 Matianuck Avenue, when the man came up behind her and pushed her down. He took her purse and ran off while she was still on the ground.

The community center includes a senior center, a youth service bureau, the recreation office and social services.

"Crimes of this type tend to escalate during the holiday season, unfortunately," Kearse said.

Although police have not publicly named a suspect, Kearse said they have an idea of who might be responsible.

"If he is the person we believe it to be, he does not live in town, but we are familiar with him," he explained.

Police hope to make an arrest soon and said the woman is OK.