A recent crime spree in New York City has left at least 49 businesses robbed by a group of thieves targeting small business owners. The United Bodegas of America (UBA) trade group has reported that the thieves have been stealing ATMs by yanking them out of the ground with vans and tow chains or carrying them out of stores by hand.
The NYPD believes the thieves are a group of three individuals using stolen cars to conduct the crimes, which have been reported in at least 25 of the city's precincts. The UBA is offering a $5,000 bounty on the bandits responsible for these thefts.
While the city has implemented new pursuit policies to minimize risks during chases, some business owners and officials have expressed concerns about the limitations placed on pursuing suspects for non-violent and lower tier crimes. Radhames Rodriguez, the president of the UBA, emphasized the importance of prosecuting low-level crimes to prevent escalation into more serious offenses.
Despite the criticism of the new pursuit guidelines, the NYPD has announced an increase in patrols on overnight subway cars to address transit crime concerns. The department plans to deploy two officers on every overnight train in phases to enhance safety and security for commuters.
Surveillance videos have been released showing the suspects in action, and the police are seeking the public's assistance in identifying the thieves responsible for the string of robberies. The NYPD spokesperson has urged anyone with information on the incidents to come forward to help apprehend the individuals involved.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to address the challenges posed by these brazen thefts and enhance public safety measures in the city.
