Public's Help Sought In Search For Robbery Suspect Targeting Seniors At Banks
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Police are seeking the public's help in the search for a man suspected in robberies targeting senior citizens at local banks.
A LAPD spokesperson says the man was captured on video loitering around a bank near Jefferson and Crenshaw boulevards around 10:45 a.m. Oct. 1.
Footage shows the man watching a 67-year-old woman during her transaction at Union Bank.
Police say the man followed the women her residence in the 3000 block of 10th Avenue and forcibly took her purse.
KCAL9's Rachel Kim spoke with the victim, who wished to be identified only as Norma.
"Just being an older person, it is so sad to see a young man robbing you," she said. "I never thought somebody was checking me."
Norma said she exchanged hellos with the man before he grabbed her from behind and told her "this is a robbery."
She says her head started bleeding as she fell to the ground during a struggle. That's when the suspect took her purse and drove off with her cash and sense of security.
"We were struggling here... That's how I believe I hit my head," she said. "Now I'm afraid, especially at night, I feel like dreams like he might come and get me."
Police say the man was seen driving away in a 1990s model faded, dark blue Nissan Altima.
He is described as a black male in his 30s, about 6 feet tall and 250-300 pounds, with black hair, brown eyes and a full beard.
Detectives are also investigating another strong-arm robbery of an 84-year-old victim that occurred five days prior just blocks away from the Oct. 1 attack.
Police say victims gave similar accounts and description of the man.
Anyone with information regarding the robberies is urged to call Southwest Area Robbery detective Gerald Harden at (213) 485-2562. Calls should be directed to 1-877-527-3247 during nonbusiness hours.
Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should contact Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477), by texting 274637 with a cellphone beginning the message with "LAPD" or by visiting the LAPD website, clicking on "webtips" and following the prompts.
