A visually impaired 73-year-old Korean American senior narrowly avoided becoming a victim of distraction theft in Koreatown on September 2, 2025, underscoring a growing wave of similar crimes across Los Angeles.
According to Yang, 73, who is visually impaired, the incident occurred around 11 a.m. near the intersection of 5th Street and South Kingsley Drive. A vehicle pulled up beside him, and a woman, believed to have exited the car, suddenly offered to put a ring and necklace on him. At the time, Yang was wearing a silver necklace and a watch. The woman pretended to place a necklace around his neck but instead tried to remove his silver necklace. Yang noticed and blocked the attempt with his hand.
The driver then offered to take him to his destination, including a market. Another woman appeared and, speaking Korean with a Latin accent, pressured him to enter the vehicle, saying she wanted to help. Yang refused, and the group eventually left. He said all of them appeared to be Latino.
Several similar distraction thefts involving Korean American seniors have been reported in recent months. A few months ago, at a Koreatown market parking lot, a woman pretended to brush dust off a victim’s shoulder and stole a necklace. In July 2025, a woman in her 70s was robbed of her watch and bracelet in front of her Torrance home. In August 2025, another senior was targeted near Santa Monica Boulevard.
The Westminster Police Department (WPD) announced on August 29, 2025, that suspects in a distraction theft case had withdrawn more than $7,000 from a victim’s debit card. WPD released surveillance photos of the suspects on Facebook and urged residents to provide tips and remain cautious. The Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) also raised concerns during a City Health and Safety Committee meeting on August 25, 2025, identifying distraction theft as a major crime.
BHPD said women in their 70s walking alone during the day are frequent targets and confirmed that two suspects were arrested in recent cases. According to police, thieves often ask for directions or offer “spiritual blessings,” placing a necklace on the victim to distract them while stealing valuables. Officers added that suspects typically act overly friendly to lower their target’s guard. Residents were advised to avoid physical contact with strangers, keep distance, and, when possible, not walk alone.
BY YOONJAE JUNG [jung.yoonjae@koreadaily.com]
