Man arrested for violent robberies targeting elderly victims in downtown Los Angeles

A man was arrested for a series of violent robberies that targeted elderly victims in businesses across downtown Los Angeles. 

The suspect, Richard Nerve McDowell III, 20, was arrested for the string of assaults and Los Angeles police believe there may be more victims.

On Jan. 27, McDowell is accused of entering a store in the 900 block of South Santee Street. He pretended to be interested in buying an item. As the 70-year-old clerk walked to the back of the store, McDowell allegedly pushed him into a closet and placed him in a chokehold. He brandished a firearm, took money from the man and fled the scene, police said.

On Feb. 20, he targeted a shop in the 1100 block of South Los Angeles Street. He browsed around and waited until the 72-year-old clerk walked to the back of the store before knocking him to the ground, police said. He allegedly punched the man several times, stomped on his chest, then strangled him until he lost consciousness. He took the man’s property and cash register before fleeing.

On March 7, he entered a business in the 1500 block of South Los Angeles Street. He tried clothing on for several minutes, waiting until the 49-year-old clerk moved to the back of the store before punching him and placing him in a chokehold. He allegedly smashed the victim’s head on a nearby table and the floor. He demanded money but could only escape with the victim’s cell phone.

On March 9, he allegedly robbed a store in the 1100 block of South Los Angeles Street. Once again, he waited until the 51-year-old clerk walked to the back before placing him in a chokehold and punching him in the face, police said. He picked up the cash register and threw it on the ground, breaking it. He then allegedly kicked and punched the clerk and placed him in another chokehold before fleeing with stolen property.

Detectives said there are three additional robbery investigations involving McDowell that fit a similar description.

McDowell was located and arrested for the robberies. Police did not release his booking photo but described him as a Black man with dark hair and brown eyes. He stands 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighs about 180 pounds. He is being held on $250,000 bail. 

“Due to the nature of these robberies, investigators believe there may be additional victims,” LAPD said. “Investigators believe that the suspect targeted elderly individuals who were working by themselves in retail establishments.”

Anyone who was a victim or has information about the case is urged to contact Detective Steve Garcia at 213-996-1867 or email 33140@lapd.online. The public can also call LAPD at 1-877-527-3247. 

Anonymous tips can be provided to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.