May 22, 2023
SACRAMENTO, CA—The Asian community in Sacramento’s Little Saigon believe they’re being specifically targeted during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage (AAPI) Month, especially the women.
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office recently arrested two suspects, but believes there may be more unreported victims, reports CBS Sacramento.
Authorities arrested 18-year-old Dominick Smith—who has since been released on bail. Police have also arrested a 17-year-old suspect at school.
In the 17-year-old’s backpack, authorities discovered a pistol without a serial number and loaded with a high-capacity magazine. The 17-year-old suspect is currently being held in the Sacramento Juvenile Hall.
Earlier this month, a 54-year-old Asian woman unlocked her car while someone jumped out of a parked car next to her and snatched her phone and phone wallet case.
Many residents fear for their safety and the safety of their businesses, which have been targeted by thieves. Authorities are still determining if the robberies are racially motivated, even though the robbers primarily target AAPI women, according to CBS.
Local residents voiced their frustrations with the broken system. NorCal Vietnamese Chamber of Commerce and cPALSs say the suspects that are apprehended do not stay behind bars for very long.
‘”Hey, you steal, you hurt me. There’s evidence. But it’s OK, you’re walking on the street the next day,'” Nikki Nguyen said.
Local community members also describe the majority of perpetrators as being of African-American descent. However, they feel stonewalled anytime they describe the race of the suspects and feel helpless because they’re being targeted by a “protected class.”
Feature Screenshots via CBS Sacramento