Kidnappers Target Elderly Victims In Harrowing Robberies: LAPD

LOS ANGELES, CA — Police in Los Angeles believe there may be additional victims of a pair of robbers who targeted elderly people and kidnapped them in the South Los Angeles, Boyle Heights, and MacArthur Park areas.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, two unnamed suspects, currently in custody, committed the attacks between June and November.

"The suspects would drive up to their victims, with one suspect exiting the vehicle to engage the victim in conversation, often using tactics to gain their trust. On some occasions, the suspects claimed to be affiliated with a church," according to the LAPD. "They would then threaten the victims with physical force or brandish a handgun, demanding that the victims enter their vehicle. The suspects would then drive the victims to another location, where they would demand money or jewelry, threatening harm if the victims did not comply."

Detectives believe there may be additional victims of the harrowing attacks who haven't come forward yet. They released photos of the gray Ford Focus used in the attacks and urged victims to come forward and report the crimes.

Victims or anyone with information about the kidnapping robbers are urged to contacts LAPD Newton Robbery Section Detective Roecker or Officer Fynn at 323-846-6572. Calls during non-business hours or weekends should be directed to 877-527-3247. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.