Lynwood woman robbed of custom gold necklace in front yard, teen suspect at large

A Lynwood woman was shoved from behind and had a one-of-a-kind custom gold necklace ripped from her neck while mowing her front lawn April 27, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

The brazen daylight attack, which took place near Agnes Avenue at about 5 p.m., is part of a pattern of chain-snatching crimes that neighbors say has persisted in the Lynwood area — a concern resonating across Southern California communities. Detectives are asking anyone with information to call (323) 568-4937.

The attack occurred April 27 at approximately 5 p.m. near Agnes Avenue in Lynwood. The suspect approached the victim from behind, pushed her and forcefully removed the necklace before fleeing in a white sport utility vehicle, possibly a Buick Encore, ABC7 Los Angeles reported.

The necklace was a custom piece the victim had made 15 years ago, giving it irreplaceable personal significance. Angry but resolute, the victim spoke to ABC7 while asking not to be identified. "His mom should be totally ashamed of him. He's around here doing things, and still walking around here in Lynwood, snatching off chains, running," she said.

The victim said neighbors and friends have spotted the suspect in the area since the robbery. "This is just terrible. He's a guy who has no morals. He's a coward and I just cannot stand people like that. And him, I really hate. I want him caught, I want him in jail and I want him away from society," she said.

Detectives described the suspect as a male between 16 and 18 years old with dreadlocked hair who was wearing all-black clothing at the time of the robbery. Authorities believe he may still be living in or frequently returning to the Lynwood neighborhood.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department detectives at (323) 568-4937.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is continuing to investigate. No arrests had been reported as of ABC7 Los Angeles' May 14 report.