Even the robbers are older in Hidden Hills

The city of Hidden Hills sort of defines exclusive and safe: its 2,017 or so residents live behind gates. There are only three full-time employees of the city, and only one quasi stop light. Incomes are high, crime low. But on Tuesday, LA County sheriff's deputies responded to a burglary report and found a woman on Long Valley Road at the door of her home, facing a man. She was crying. As deputies approached, the man tried to force her into the home. He also went for the gun in his waistband, but the deputies were able to subdue the assailant.

Then it got interesting.

Deputies say that the suspect is a 75-year-old Chatsworth man, Ronald Snyder, who used to own a home in Hidden Hills, so he knew how to get past the gates. He had recently suffered what the sheriff's office calls "a recent significant financial downturn." Deputies say he wore a wig as he forced his way into the woman's home by pretending to be with the Los Angeles County sheriff's department. Inside, he pointed a gun at her head and announced he would rob her. Lucky for her, but unlucky for the robber, the woman's son heard it all and called 911.

From the LASD release:

The victim convinced Snyder there was nothing of value inside the house. While this was occurring, the victim’s son heard his mother scream. He quietly listened to the conversation between the victim and Snyder while simultaneously dialing 9-1-1.

During a search of Suspect Snyder’s car, deputies discovered false law enforcement identification, handcuffs, a wig, gloves, rope, and two handguns (including one with a silencer).

In handling the investigation, Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Detectives executed a search warrant on Snyder’s Chatsworth home as well as his business, recovering additional evidence and numerous firearms.

Detectives were also able to link Suspect Snyder to another home burglary that occurred in Hidden Hills. ...

Snyder was arraigned in Los Angeles Superior Court, Van Nuys Division, on July 16, 2013, for numerous felonies, including Robbery, Burglary, Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and Impersonating a Peace Officer.

Snyder is currently being held in lieu of $1,000,000.00 bail.