By Los Angeles County Politics (LACP)
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman and LA County Sheriff Robert G. Luna, along with law enforcement officials from across the county, urged the public yesterday to remain vigilant, especially when withdrawing and depositing money at banks and ATMs, as the Chinese Year of the Fire Horse approaches.
The 2026 Lunar Year of the Fire Horse begins on February 17, marking the start of a 12-month period associated with energy, passion, and adventure in the Chinese zodiac. It is a rare combination of the Horse sign with the Fire element, occurring only every 60 years. The last Year of the Horse was 2014, and the next one will be 2038.
“Individuals visiting banks and ATMs are prime targets for criminal opportunists, especially during major holidays such as the upcoming Lunar New Year,” said Hochman. “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 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,” said Luna. “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.”
Hochman emphasized his office prosecutes hundreds of robberies every year at our branch offices, 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.
The Office’s Organized Crime Division is also pursuing a case against two men accused of targeting Asian women at Asian shopping centers, including one victim who had just exited a bank and one victim who used the bank’s outdoor ATM, is ongoing.
“As a matter of good practice, always be aware of your surroundings and keep safety in mind when visiting banking institutions or ATMs,” said Pasadena Police Chief Gene Harris.
“Lunar New Year is a time of joy, connection and new beginnings. At East West Bank, that means helping our customers celebrate without worry, knowing their money and personal information are protected,” 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.”
For more resources, including links to report crime, visit https://da.lacounty.gov/operations/bankSafety.
