Shmira Locates Suspect After Two Brazen Robberies Targeting Children in Boro Park

By Y.M. Lowy

A suspect connected to two disturbing robberies in Boro Park, both involving young victims, has been located and taken into custody following hours of coordinated work by Shmira members.

The incidents began on Thursday, December 25, at around 5:52 p.m., outside 1534 42nd Street. A 10-year-old boy was walking in the area when the suspect approached him, grabbed him by the arm, and took what the suspect believed to be real money. It was later determined that the money was imitation play money, but the encounter left the child traumatized. The suspect fled the scene on foot, heading southbound on 42nd Street. The child was not physically injured.

Just two hours later, the same suspect allegedly struck again nearby. A young bochur riding a scooter along 15th Avenue between 42nd and 43rd Street was followed from behind. The suspect reportedly jumped in front of him, shoved him off the scooter, and fled with it. While the scooter was later recovered nearby, the suspect managed to escape.

The back-to-back incidents, both targeting children in a short span of time, sparked deep concern among residents. 

After intensive efforts, Shmira members were able to locate the suspect, which resulted in an arrest by the NYPD. The investigation is continuing as police work to process the case.