Asian community feels targeted by crime ahead of Lunar New Year celebrations
Asian community feels targeted by crime ahead of Lunar New Year celebrations
Police throughout the Bay Area are urging vigilance and caution especially leading up the Lunar New Year holiday. City leaders can't recall a crime spree last Lunar New Year and are unclear if a recent spike is a one-off or pandemic-related.
SAN JOSE, Calif. - A 64-year-old grandmother was assaulted in San Jose on Wednesday afternoon. Police are urging vigilance and caution especially leading up the Lunar New Year holiday.
"She was pretty shaken," said Victim’s Daughter Kathy Duong. "They took her purse. It had her keys, her possessions. It was gone an instant."
In broad daylight, Kathy Duoung’s mother had left the bank with more than $1,000 in cash for Lunar New Year. As she got in her car across the street at a Vietnamese market on Second Street in San Jose, she was being watched.
"A car blocked her in, jumped out, opened the door, grabbed her purse and then ran off," said Duong.
This is not an isolated incident targeting older Asians. KTVU reported on a series of violent crimes in Oakland’s Chinatown. In San Francisco, an 84-year-old Thai immigrant was attacked and killed.
"We are currently working any and all possible leads as it relates to that investigation," said Lt. Carlos Acosta of San Jose Police.
A week from Friday is Lunar New Year for Asian Americans. San Jose is home to the largest Vietnamese population in the United States.
"This is actually the first time I have seen this as a trend," said San Jose Councilmember Raul Peralez.
City leaders can't recall a crime spree last Lunar New Year, unclear if it’s a one-off or pandemic-related.
"This may be related to something that’s happening in our economy you have much more people who are desperate right now," said Peralez.
"Don’t walk around with red envelopes in hand," said San Jose Crime Prevention Specialist Mimi-Cristien Nguyen.
Red envelopes are often filled with brand new bills. It’s a symbol of prosperity and criminals see it as easy money.
Police also advise against carrying expensive purses when out and about and to use caution when going to the ATM, bank and jewelry store.
The Duong sisters encourage using the buddy system, warning others to protect their elders.
"It should be a festive time, it should be a celebration, you should be thinking of family and friends, instead you are being targeted," said Duong.
The victim did not get a clear look at the suspects. Authorities urge vigilance now that everyone wears a mark. They did get away in a gray Infiniti. Police are canvassing the area for surveillance video and stepping up patrols.
Azenith Smith is a reporter for KTVU. Email Azenith at azenith.smith@foxtv.com and follow her on Twitter and Instagram @AzenithKTVU or Facebook or ktvu.com.