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Palmdale Psychic Accused Of 'Theft By Hex'

PALMDALE (CBS) — A Palmdale psychic is accused of forcing a 12-year-old to become a jewel thief.

Jackeline Lopez
(credit: LASD)

The case dates back to August when the victim became friends with Jackeline Lopez's child. Authorities allege the 12-year-old victim would sneak out of her home to visit Lopez and her friend.

Police say Lopez, 42, told the young girl she could predict her future and that she, along with her family, was cursed.

"Lopez allegedly conducted these psychic readings in her home's garage which she had decorated with numerous candles, chalk outlines, black caldrons, replicated human skulls, beads, dolls, and other similar items consistent with psychic readings," the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department said in a statement.

Officials say Lopez told the girl the only way to remove the curse was to steal more than $10,000 worth of jewelry from her parents.

Caldron
(credit: LASD)

"Lopez would orchestrate a ritual in which the victim would place the stolen jewelry in the caldron and attempt to remove the curse. Each time however Lopez would tell the victim that what they had brought was not enough to remove the horrible curse and she needed more," deputies said.

Lopez was arrested last month. The stolen jewelry was pawned, according to police.

Hex Pawn Suspect
(credit: LASD)

Authorities are also looking for a male suspect seen aiding Lopez in pawning the stolen jewelry.

Authorities believe there could be more victims.

Lopez is free on $35,000 bail and appear in court on Oct. 18.

Anyone with information should call the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department at (661) 272-2477.

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