Two individuals on a scooter are wanted in connection with 23 robberies throughout New York City.
A recent wave of jewelry thefts across New York City has drawn police attention, linking a two-man team of traveling thieves who operate using a gas-powered scooter. The perpetrators are believed to be responsible for a series of alarming incidents, having stolen jewelry from 23 victims since the onset of their spree on April 9, according to a statement from the authorities.
The suspects, reported to wear helmets while riding a scooter outfitted with a delivery bag, have targeted various neighborhoods, notably in Harlem, as well as parts of southern Brooklyn and Queens. Police released images of the duo in hopes that the public might provide leads in the ongoing investigation.
From April through June, the thieves executed their scheme by swiftly approaching individuals, forcibly snatching necklaces and other jewelry before fleeing the scene. This modus operandi has resulted in minor injuries for several victims—many of whom have been left shaken after their possessions are ripped from their necks.
A particularly notable series of incidents occurred in Ridgewood and Woodhaven, Queens, where the suspects targeted three teenagers between April 29 and May 2. Alarmingly, two of the young victims were just 13 years old. In one instance, the assailants escalated the violence, pulling a knife and placing one victim in a chokehold during the robbery.
Moreover, police have reported that the suspects may employ multiple vehicles to evade capture, having been seen riding both a black and red moped during various incidents.
The NYPD has emphasized the necessity of community vigilance in combatting this rising trend of scooter-based robberies. Officials are urging anyone who may have information regarding the identities or whereabouts of these suspects to contact the NYPD CrimeStoppers at (800) 577-TIPS. The department reassures that all tips submitted will remain confidential, as they seek to bring an end to this disconcerting chapter in the city’s crime landscape.
As residents continue their daily routines amid these incidents, the police remain committed to ensuring public safety throughout New York City, actively pursuing leads and fostering collaboration with the community to thwart similar crime patterns in the future.
