Robberies Targeting Asian Business Owners Spike,
Spreading Concerns
Crimes against Asian business owners have always been a reality, but in recent years, they have become increasingly organized and systematic. Criminals are employing sophisticated tactics, selecting their targets through thorough intelligence gathering, and executing their plans with detailed precision. Colorado police told the New York Post that they fear this alarming shift in crime could become “epidemic.” Unlike in the past, criminals today are more sophisticated and bolder, underscoring the need for sharp awareness.
Recently reported cases
©WMUR
In Colorado, a recent wave of burglaries targeting Asian American families has been reported across 15 counties. Westminster Detective Adam Lanning warned that these crimes reflect a nationwide trend, with organized criminal groups working collaboratively to carry out burglaries in various neighborhoods. Police believe these incidents are part of a criminal network and are actively sharing information with neighboring out-of-state law enforcement agencies to assess the scale of the crimes.
A similar incident occurred in New Hampshire, where criminals broke into the homes of Asian business owners, stealing jewelry and cash. Police reported that the perpetrators used advanced technology, including Wi-Fi signal blockers, to determine occupancy and disable security cameras and GPS trackers. “As we shared information with other local agencies, we realized these incidents were connected to a larger criminal network,” said Sergeant Chris Olson of the Londonderry Police Department. Authorities noted that the criminals conducted thorough research on specific homes, targeting them when they were unoccupied.
A string of burglaries targeting Asian business owners in South Florida led to the arrest of several suspects, who were tracked down and apprehended on wiretapping charges. Investigators identified the South American Thieving Group of Colombia (SATG) as being behind the incidents.
Theft targeting Asian business owners, why concerning?
Premeditation and organized crime
These are not isolated incidents of theft, but organized crimes executed with meticulous planning and detailed research. Criminals carefully monitor their victims’ business hours and personal routines, selecting targets with precision. In many cases, they follow victims’ home from their businesses, putting their families at risk. The involvement of organized criminal networks, rather than lone perpetrators, complicates investigations, making it harder to identify and apprehend those responsible. This leaves victims and communities in a prolonged state of fear until these criminal networks are dismantled.
Possible undocumented immigrant involvement and victims’ fears
Some suspects have been identified as undocumented individuals, further complicating efforts to track and apprehend them. Victims report feeling distrustful and frustrated by the lack of progress in solving these crimes. The incidents have caused extreme anxiety, with victims deeply affected by the invasion of their homes and exposure of their personal information. Many fear becoming targets of further victimization, compounding their psychological trauma.
The Solution
Experts emphasize the importance of individual efforts, institutional strengthening, and community unity in combating crime. Preventing and addressing crime requires collaboration among individuals, institutions, and communities. Here are several key approaches:
- Enhancing individual security awareness: Install high-definition CCTV and alarm systems, reduce reliance on cash transactions, and prioritize protecting personal privacy.
- Strengthening government response: Increase patrols in high-priority neighborhoods, conduct aggressive investigations into crimes involving undocumented immigrants, and enhance cooperation with immigration authorities.
- Fostering community Unity: Develop community networks to share crime-related experiences and exchange information about suspicious activities, while actively seeking ways to collaborate with authorities.
- Petition sites
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