Crook Robs Blind Woman in Little Tokyo, Caught on Video

Los Angeles.  Los Angeles detectives have released video of a shocking, daylight robbery in Little Tokyo, in which a man chokes an elderly blind woman to steal her gold chain and jade pendant.

“This is shocking to watch, especially when you consider this woman is legally blind,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, commanding officer of the Central Detective Division.  “When you watch the video you can actually read the crook’s mind as he sizes up his victim and waits for witnesses to walk by.”

The robbery occurred on 1st Street between Los Angeles Street and San Pedro Street on July 24.  The retired resident of Little Tokyo was pushing her walker down the sidewalk around noon, when a short Hispanic man sneaks up behind the 68 year old.  The crook grabs her around the throat and chokes her as she struggles to understand what is happening to her.  

“She fights back, but the suspect gets her gold chain and jade pendant, worth about $100,” Lt. Vernon explained.  “If this video doesn’t make you angry, little will.”

A man in a nearby business also comes to the victim’s rescue and the suspect runs away.  Detectives are combing through other video to see if the suspect’s image is captured later.

“Street robberies are uncommon in the Little Tokyo area, so this one really stands out,” Lt. Vernon said.  “And this suspect really needs to go to jail.”

The mugger was wearing a white shirt, a small back pack, and a baseball cap turned backwards.

Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call Central Detectives at (213) 972-1251.  Anonymous tips can be called into Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477), or by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Online tips may be placed at www.LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.