Tuesday, February 10, 2026

District Attorney Hochman: Lunar New Year Could Be Target for Crime

CITY NEWS SERVICE

Next week’s Lunar New Year could be a prime target for criminals that watch for bank customers who withdraw large amounts of cash, officials warned Monday.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman and other law enforcement officials from across the county urged the public to stay vigilant, especially when withdrawing and depositing money at banks and ATMs.

“Individuals visiting banks and ATMs are prime targets for criminal opportunists, especially during major holidays such as the upcoming Lunar New Year,” Hochman said in a statement.

“I urge the public to remain aware of their surroundings when conducting banking business. Trust your instincts if you believe something appears suspicious, report it immediately. Let me be clear: To those thinking of engaging in criminal conduct, please heed this warning that you will be arrested, prosecuted, and punished to the fullest extent of the law.”

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, falls on Feb. 17. This is the year of the Horse, the Chinese zodiac animal symbolizing success, strength, stability and elegance.

The District Attorney’s Office prosecutes hundreds of robberies every year, including a case in Van Nuys against a trio accused of participating in an armed robbery spree last summer at ATMs outside multiple bank branches. The defendants face nine to 37 years in state prison depending on their level of involvement.

“Lunar New Year is a time to celebrate heritage, family, and tradition for many across our county, and we want every member of our diverse communities to do so safely,” Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert G. Luna said. “Unfortunately, criminals sometimes exploit this season by targeting individuals who may be withdrawing larger amounts of cash to honor cultural customs. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department remains committed to protecting our residents, raising awareness, and collaborating with our community partners to prevent these crimes and hold offenders accountable.”

Officials emphasize such crimes are not limited to specific cities, banks or populations.

“As a matter of good practice, always be aware of your surroundings and keep safety in mind when visiting banking institutions or ATMs,” Pasadena Police Chief Gene Harris said.

Law enforcement officials and the banking community advise members of the public to take the following precautions at banks and ATMs:

• Be aware and vigilant of surroundings;
• Trust your instincts: If something appears suspicious, leave the location or call 911;
• Park in well-lit areas close to entrances or heavy foot traffic;
• Lock vehicle doors as soon as you enter it;
• If being followed, call 911 or drive to the nearest police station;
• Avoid carrying large bags, wearing expensive jewelry or displaying large amounts of cash; and
• Look out for common distraction tactics by strangers who approach to compliment attire or jewelry, return your “dropped cash” or inspect your vehicle for mechanical defects.

“Lunar New Year is a time of joy, connection and new beginnings,” said Renee Sun, East West Bank managing director of retail banking for SoCal.

“As we enter the Year of the Horse, our message is simple: pause before you pay. Always know exactly who you are sending money to, and be cautious of unexpected texts, emails or links requesting payment, especially those that pressure you to act quickly. Never rush a payment simply because someone creates a sense of urgency. If you are ever unsure about a message, a transaction or a request for money, contact your bank. You don’t have to figure it out alone.”