Why are so many predators able to find and exploit someone who's already been hurt?

I am amazed at the seeming magnetic attraction. I have seen this in action with a neighbor abused most of her life and how scuzz zero in on her... even vendor/contractors hired for an odd job.

On one occasion I had to physically stand on her porch doing an impersonation of a "battleship" when a guy came back sniffing around... Weirdest dynamic.

As she has gained more self and normality, they seem less drawn to her. Just really weird sick energy on their parts...