On June 4, 2025, at approximately 12:20 p.m., police officers responded to a robbery near 2100 South Bristol Street, according to the SAPD.
This incident is consistent with a pattern observed in similar cases involving suspects known as Romani travelers, who typically approach victims by offering assistance, then use the distraction of placing jewelry on them to steal their personal belongings.
In this incident, an 83-year-old male victim was approached by a female suspect who offered to help him with his groceries.
During the interaction, the suspect removed two gold chains from the victim’s neck, valued at over $4,500.
The female suspect then entered a white Mercedes GLS 450 SUV driven by a male accomplice, and both fled the scene.
As the vehicle fled, a security guard attempted to intervene. The driver failed to stop and struck the victim, causing serious injuries to his leg.
- Female suspect: 20–25 years old, approximately 5’5”, 140 lbs., wearing a gray shirt and blue jeans.
- Vehicle: White Mercedes SUV, mode GLS 450.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Rubalcava at (714) 245-8373.
Who Are the Romani People?
The Romani, or Roma, are an ethnic group with roots in northern India. They began migrating westward over 1,000 years ago, eventually settling in various parts of Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
Cultural Background
Traditionally, many Roma lived as nomads and worked in trades like metalworking, music, animal trading, and entertainment. Today, many are settled and integrated into broader societies, though some communities maintain traditional lifestyles.
Language
The Romani language is related to Hindi and other Indian languages. It has many dialects and is often spoken alongside the local language of the country where Roma live.
Global Presence
Large Romani populations are found in Eastern and Central Europe, especially in Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary, and the Balkans. There are also communities in the Americas, the Middle East, and Australia.
Discrimination and Persecution
The Roma have faced centuries of discrimination and marginalization. During the Holocaust, hundreds of thousands were killed by the Nazis. Today, many still face social exclusion and economic hardship.
Terminology
The term “Gypsy” is considered offensive by many Roma. Preferred terms include Roma, Romani, or Rom, depending on the subgroup and region.
Here’s a summary of the potential penalties the suspects could face under California law:
1. Robbery (Penal Code § 211)
Taking property directly from a person using force or fear.
- Penalty: 2 to 9 years in state prison, depending on the degree of robbery.
2. Grand Theft (Penal Code § 487)
Theft of property valued over $950, which applies here since the stolen jewelry was worth over $4,500.
- Penalty: Up to 3 years in jail if charged as a felony.
3. Hit-and-Run Causing Injury (Vehicle Code § 20001)
Leaving the scene after hitting someone with a vehicle and causing injury.
- Penalty: 2 to 4 years in state prison and fines up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors:
- The victim was 83 years old, which could lead to elder abuse charges.
- The suspects used a vehicle to flee and injured someone in the process.
- If part of an organized pattern of thefts, additional charges or sentence enhancements may apply.
Benz GLS appears to retail new for $89,000! These Gyp$!*s– err Romani Travelers– are obviously not without means!
Almost feel worst for the diligent security guard. He actually tried to do good, which was his mistake. So they don’t have to pay his medical bills, his is company will likely fire him for violating some minor procedural error– revoking his medical insurance and stiffing him with the massive bill for his injuries. He probably barely made $19/hour to begin with. And were surprised when people turn to a life of crime instead? What a messed up world.