A series of cunning thefts unfolded near New York University, leaving a trail of victims and $3,500 in losses.
Key Takeaways
- A group of scammers stole $3,500 in a series of robberies near New York University.
- The first theft involved a 14-year-old boy, manipulated into transferring $350 through deceitful tactics.
- Additional victims included a 19-year-old and a 23-year-old forced to withdraw significant sums.
- The NYPD is actively searching for the suspects, appealing for public assistance.
Scammers Prey on NYU Community
Three scammers orchestrated a sequence of thefts near New York University, amassing $3,500 from unwary victims. Their scheme included feigning donations for a non-existent sports team, a ruse that successfully deceived a 14-year-old boy on Christmas Eve. The crooks pretended to collect funds before absconding with $350 transferred via the boy’s mobile device.
Following this, on January 8, the offenders struck again, this time targeting a 19-year-old near East 4th Street and Broadway. The scammers coerced the individual into withdrawing $1,400 from an ATM under false pretenses. Just a few days later, on January 11, they pressured a 23-year-old man, at Astor Place near Lafayette Street, into parting with $800 in cash and $1,000 transferred through an app.
Scammers pleading for donations target victims near NYU, stealing $3.5K in string of robberies: cops https://t.co/lYWN1zJYo2 pic.twitter.com/2foLgxSyiz
— New York Post (@nypost) January 23, 2025
No Injuries Reported, But Concerns Raised
The perpetrators managed to carry out these crimes without inflicting any physical harm on the victims. The NYPD has released photos of the suspects, clad in hoodies and winter coats, urging the public to provide any information that might lead to their capture. Authorities also highlight that the suspects are currently at large, stressing the importance of community vigilance in ensuring their swift apprehension.
“The NYPD released photos of the still-at-large suspects, seen bundled up in hoodies or winter coats, on Wednesday.” – The NYPD
The Crime Stoppers Hotline is actively seeking tips from the public, promoting community engagement in this critical investigation. Residents and students alike are urged to report any suspicious activity to aid in bringing these criminals to justice and preventing further incidents.
Scammers pleading for donations target victims near NYU, stealing $3.5K in string of robberies: cops https://t.co/a3FA7XYvuN pic.twitter.com/0iPRyvRvcI
— New York Post Metro (@nypmetro) January 23, 2025
Impact on NYC’s Community
The brazen acts of fraud occurring in proximity to a major educational institution raise significant concerns about security and the need for enhanced community awareness. These incidents emphasize the necessity of being vigilant and wary of such scams. Not only have the victims faced financial loss, but they also highlight the broader issue of ongoing scam activity targeting unsuspecting individuals.
“A trio of scammers made off with $3,500 in a recent string of robberies near New York University“ in one case pleading with a 14-year-old boy for donations to a sports team before ripping him off, cops and sources said.” – cops and sources
The NYPD continues to patrol and monitor the area, hoping to ensure such predatory schemes are thwarted. As investigations continue, the university community and surrounding neighborhoods are encouraged to stay informed and compliant with safety advisories issued by local law enforcement.
