LAPD Seeking Man Who Choked, Robbed Blind Woman in Little Tokyo
Courtesy LAPD
Still from video of the July 24 mugging
DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — Police today released a video of a brazen daytime mugging that took place in Little Tokyo on Sunday, July 24, and are hoping that the public can help them find the man who choked and robbed a 68-year-old woman.
The robbery took place on 1st Street, between Los Angeles and San Pedro streets. The thief made off with a jade pendant and necklace, valued at approximately $100.
“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.”
A shop owner came to the woman's aid, but the mugger ran away. Police are looking through video from other nearby cameras, hoping to find another view of the perpetrator.
“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 is urged to call Central Detectives at (213) 972-1251.
derblut on August 01, 2011, at 06:00PM – #1
What a coward!
Brady Westwater (@bradywestwater) on August 02, 2011, at 09:50AM – #2
Can't they release an enhanced close-up of the guy while they look for additional footage?
Jasmijn on August 02, 2011, at 06:01PM – #3
Good to hear someone stepped up and helped her, unlike some other stories I've been reading lately (esp. the storekeeper in this one http://laist.com/2011/07/27/woman_arrested_for_grabbing_baby_fr.php). Poor lady! How awful.
Yes, a close-up would be helpful.
DenOfLosAngeles on August 02, 2011, at 06:50PM – #4
Hope police catch this coward soon