The New York Police Department is actively searching for a moped-riding, knife-wielding robber who has been dubbed the 'Haggler After Midnight' due to his unique modus operandi during muggings. The suspect has been targeting victims in Brooklyn and Queens since early November, with a total of 11 incidents reported.
According to Deputy Chief John Mastronardi from the department's Crimes against Persons Unit, the robber primarily targets Hispanic men aged between 20 and 40 who are on their way home from work in the early hours of the morning. The suspect is known to negotiate with his victims in both English and Spanish, often displaying a preference for certain items over others.
The robber, who arrives on a blue or dark-colored motorized scooter, typically threatens his victims with a knife before taking cash, electronics, jewelry, phones, and other valuables. In some instances, he engages his victims in conversation, asking questions to assess them before proceeding with the robbery.
The most recent incident on December 10 involved the suspect putting a knife to a victim's throat, marking a significant escalation in his brazen behavior. Despite the threats, none of the victims have sustained physical injuries during the robberies.
The NYPD has urged anyone with information about the 'Haggler After Midnight' robber to come forward, with Crime Stoppers offering a cash reward for details leading to the suspect's capture. The police are working diligently to apprehend the perpetrator and ensure the safety of the community.
