Law & Order Fan In NYC Helps Nab Robbery Suspect

First Published: August 27, 2009 2:35 PM EDT Credit: NBC

NEW YORK, N.Y. -- Caption Christopher Meloni and Mariska Hargitay in ‘Law & Order: SVU’Who says television’s bad for you?

Justine Faeth’s favorite show is “Law & Order Special Victims Unit.” The Manhattan office assistant recently used sleuthing skills she picked up from the show to help police catch a man accused of a string of robberies.

The suspect walked into the production company where Faeth works. Police say he stole an employee’s purse, an iPod and a wallet.

Before leaving, he drank water and blew his nose. Faeth saved the cup and tissue. Investigators used DNA samples from the items to track down and arrest a suspect.

On Thursday, Faeth appeared on NBC’s “Today” show. Actress Mariska Hargitay, who plays a “Law & Order” detective, called in to express her “awe.” They even discussed the possibility of Faeth doing a walk-on.

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