A fraud spree targeting local stores throughout Boro Park came to an end after the coordinated efforts of Boro Park Shomrim volunteers from multiple neighborhoods and the NYPD led to the arrest of two wanted suspects.
Shomrim received numerous hotline calls from local store owners reporting that two individuals had entered businesses and used fraudulent methods to obtain expensive merchandise. In some cases, the suspects allegedly used stolen credit cards to purchase electronics. In other cases, they claimed they had sent a QuickPay payment, showing store owners what appeared to be a payment confirmation screenshot. The merchants later discovered the screenshots were fake and that no money had been deposited into their accounts.
As reports continued to come in, Shomrim volunteers spread throughout the neighborhood searching for the suspects while providing real time updates to the NYPD. Volunteers from multiple neighborhoods assisted, keeping an eye on the suspects from a safe distance while coordinating with responding officers.
When the suspects noticed the police presence, they became spooked and fled, striking multiple vehicles and causing damage. During the incident, they nearly struck pedestrians, NYPD officers, Shomrim volunteers, and other bystanders.
Shomrim volunteers kept an eye on the suspects’ movements and continued providing updates to the NYPD. The suspects eventually made their way to Brownsville, where NYPD officers responded and placed both individuals under arrest. The suspect vehicle was recovered along with stolen merchandise.
The investigation revealed that the suspects allegedly stole thousands of dollars worth of expensive electronics from local stores, including cell phones, Apple AirPods, and other high value merchandise.
Shomrim reminds all local store owners that if they notice suspicious activity or believe they have been targeted by fraud, they should call the Shomrim hotline immediately. Prompt reporting allows volunteers and the NYPD to respond quickly and helps prevent additional businesses from becoming victims.
