Elderly women, particularly those of Filipino/Asian descent, have been the targets of a string of purse snatchings around San Diego County supermarkets, a concern underscored by the San Diego County District Attorney's Office. Following the arrest of three individuals linked to the thefts, District Attorney Summer Stephan warned the public to stay vigilant, particularly elderly shoppers who seem to be prime targets in these malicious schemes. According to the San Diego County District Attorney's Office, thieves are known to canvass shopping centers, waiting for an opportunity to strike as these women transition from store to vehicle, a critical moment when purses are most vulnerable.
In a span stretching from January through April, suspects practiced a modus operandi where one would exit a parked vehicle and snatch a purse from the front seat of a victim's car as she loaded groceries, after which the thief would flee to a getaway car and later, the stolen credit cards were used, and valuables pawned causing not just financial loss but a significant emotional toll for the victims. Shawntece Davis, 32, Kenya Frazier, 29, and David Anthony Foster, 67, the defendants implicated in these heinous acts, face a litany of charges including theft from an elder, robbery, burglary, and conspiracy to commit elder theft with each count carrying a potential of up to 17 years in state prison if convicted of all charges, as detailed in the court procedures.
San Diego Police Department Chief Scott Wahl and National City Police Chief Alejandro Hernandez both conveyed their disdain for the predatory nature of these crimes through statements highlighting the reprehensibility of victimizing elderly community members, stressing the importance of collaborative law enforcement efforts. Wahl described the crimes as "sickening" in the face of criminals targeting vulnerable populations. Hernandez commended the teamwork exemplified in addressing these cases, reflecting a united front in protecting the community, especially those most susceptible to exploitation.
With World Elder Abuse Awareness Day having just passed, the incidents serve as a poignant reminder of the persistent dangers the elderly face; the District Attorney's Elder Abuse Unit, as part of the Family Protection Division, is taking active steps to address these threats through prevention outreach and diligent prosecution of offenders. As these incidents continue to surface across the county, authorities urge the public to keep their belongings secure and report any suspicious activities, noting the critical nature of community involvement in thwarting these criminal enterprises, especially when involving our seniors with Deputy District Attorney Scott Pirrello, leading the prosecution for the DA's Elder Abuse Unit, championing these protective measures.
For cases of emergency or crimes in progress, calling 9-1-1 remains the immediate course of action, while Adult Protective Services can be contacted at 1-800-339-4661 for suspected elder or dependent abuse. These combined efforts by law enforcement and the public underscore the ongoing commitment to shield one of the most vulnerable factions of our society, our respected elders, from harm and violation.
