Police in Mott Haven are seeking a man in connection with an incident in which a 21-year-old’s cellphone was taken and a knife was displayed when the victim attempted to retrieve it. The event occurred just before 6 a.m. on February 5 inside a building at 260 Brook Avenue. Investigators report that the suspect engaged in a verbal dispute with the victim, took the phone, and displayed a knife before leaving with the device.
As reported by News 12 New York, police say the suspect was last seen in a red jacket over a gray hooded sweatshirt, with a black face mask and multicolored sneakers. Detectives have circulated that description as they work to track him down and are asking anyone who recognizes it to come forward.
Police Ask For Tips
Investigators are urging anyone with information, photos or video of the incident or suspect to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers program. Tipsters can call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or submit information online, according to the City of New York.
The department also accepts tips by text (send CRIMES, then TIP577) and through its mobile app. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and information that leads to an arrest and indictment may qualify for a reward through Crime Stoppers.
Robberies In The Neighborhood
The case adds to recent reports of cellphone thefts and armed stickups in Mott Haven, where police have been publicizing surveillance images and suspect descriptions in other robberies. News 12 New York recently aired video and NYPD details on a pattern of robberies targeting multiple victims on the same corner.
Mott Haven is covered by the NYPD’s 40th Precinct, which posts precinct-level crime stats, advisories and community alerts online, according to the City of New York. Police again stressed that residents can share information without giving their names and that Crime Stoppers tips may be eligible for a cash reward.
