A brazen crew of armed robbers terrorized New York City for nearly two months, committing at least 11 successful robberies in Brooklyn and Queens.
According to the allegations, the robbers targeted primarily Asian-owned businesses, such as billiards halls and internet cafes, using a rotating crew of perpetrators. They also committed home invasion robberies of at least two residences in Queens believed to be locations of gambling operations.
The robbers typically conducted these robberies at night, armed with at least one knife and BB-gun, which they brandished and pointed at victims. At times, they forced victims to open cash registers at knifepoint, while clutching a victim’s neck.
During these robberies, the robbers physically injured at least two victims. During a home invasion robbery, one victim—who was asleep when the robbers entered—woke up, resisted, and was stabbed in the torso during the ensuing scuffle; his bloodied shirt, and his doubling over in pain, are visible on video surveillance.
The crew’s brazen scheme came to an end in September 2017, when the five defendants—SIRA ABASSI, KENLEE GALVEZ, DAVID BRADFORD, JEREMIAS MUNOZ, and LUIS MONSANTO-GERMOSEN—pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman stated, ‘During August and September of 2017, a rotating crew of armed robbers committed nearly a dozen armed robberies in New York City, victimizing businesses and homes alike. Thanks to our law enforcement partners, this robbery crew has been dismantled and all five defendants in this case have admitted to taking part in this brazen scheme.’
The defendants will face justice for their crimes, with each defendant awaiting sentencing. This highly-effective work of law enforcement reflects the relentless focus on the real drivers of crime in New York City.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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