Los Angeles, February 11, 2026
Los Angeles County officials are warning elderly Asian residents of potential ATM robberies amid Lunar New Year celebrations. Traditional cash gifts increase the risk, as recent incidents highlight criminals targeting vulnerable individuals. Authorities encourage vigilance and offer safety tips to reduce the risk of theft during this festive period.
Los Angeles County Authorities Warn Elderly Asians About ATM Robberies During Lunar New Year
Los Angeles County officials have issued a warning to elderly Asian residents about potential ATM robberies during the upcoming Lunar New Year celebrations, urging the public to remain vigilant when withdrawing and depositing money at banks and ATMs.
Increased Vulnerability During Lunar New Year
The Lunar New Year, beginning on February 17, is a time when many in the Asian community give cash gifts to loved ones. This tradition often leads to increased ATM withdrawals, making individuals, especially the elderly, prime targets for criminals.
Recent Incidents Highlight the Threat
Authorities have highlighted several recent incidents to underscore the risks:
- In March 2024, two Los Angeles residents were sentenced to prison for armed robberies targeting individuals withdrawing or depositing money at banks. In one case, an elderly woman was dragged across a parking lot during the robbery.
- Long Beach resident Dangelo Davonte Thomas and Lancaster resident Demoryie Watts were convicted of robbing bank customers in parking lots across multiple cities, including Glendale and Temple City. Thomas received a 20-year sentence, while Watts was sentenced to 16 years.
- In Van Nuys, three individuals were accused of a series of armed robberies at ATMs outside various bank branches. The defendants face prison terms ranging from nine to 37 years, depending on their level of involvement.
Official Recommendations for Public Safety
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman emphasized the importance of public awareness, stating that individuals visiting banks and ATMs are prime targets for criminal opportunists, especially during major holidays such as the upcoming Lunar New Year. He urged the public to trust their instincts and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Law enforcement officials have provided the following safety tips to help individuals protect themselves during this period:
- Be aware and vigilant of surroundings.
- Trust your instincts: If something appears suspicious, leave the location or call 911.
- Park in well-lit areas close to entrances or heavy foot traffic.
- Lock vehicle doors as soon as you enter it.
- If being followed, call 911 or drive to the nearest police station.
- Avoid carrying large bags, wearing expensive jewelry, or displaying large amounts of cash.
- Be cautious of common distraction tactics by strangers who approach to compliment attire or jewelry, return your “dropped cash,” or inspect your vehicle for mechanical defects.
By adhering to these precautions, individuals can help ensure their safety and reduce the risk of falling victim to ATM robberies during the Lunar New Year celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the primary concern regarding ATM robberies during the Lunar New Year?
Authorities are concerned that elderly Asian residents withdrawing cash for Lunar New Year traditions may become targets for criminals.
What safety measures are recommended to prevent ATM robberies?
Recommendations include being vigilant of surroundings, trusting instincts, parking in well-lit areas, locking vehicle doors immediately, avoiding carrying large bags or displaying cash, and being cautious of distraction tactics by strangers.
Have there been recent incidents of ATM robberies targeting the elderly?
Yes, there have been several incidents in the past, including armed robberies targeting individuals withdrawing or depositing money at banks, with some victims being dragged across parking lots during the robberies.
What should I do if I feel I am being followed after withdrawing money?
If you believe you are being followed, call 911 or drive to the nearest police station immediately. Do not go home.
How can I report suspicious activity at ATMs or banks?
If you notice any suspicious activity, trust your instincts and report it immediately by calling 911 or your local law enforcement agency.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Concern | Elderly Asian residents withdrawing cash for Lunar New Year traditions may be targeted by criminals. |
| Recent Incidents | Several armed robberies targeting individuals at ATMs and banks, with some victims being dragged across parking lots during the robberies. |
| Safety Recommendations | Be vigilant, trust instincts, park in well-lit areas, lock vehicle doors, avoid displaying cash, and be cautious of distraction tactics by strangers. |
| Reporting Suspicious Activity | If you notice suspicious activity, report it immediately by calling 911 or your local law enforcement agency. |
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