BRONX, N.Y. – Five suspects, including a 16-year-old boy, have been arrested in connection with a series of violent gunpoint jewelry robberies that netted nearly $100,000 in stolen items across the Bronx, officials confirmed on Friday.
String of Armed Robberies Across Bronx Neighborhoods
According to Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark, the suspects—ranging in age from 16 to 29 years old—carried out at least seven armed robberies between September 20 and October 6. The incidents occurred in neighborhoods including Kingsbridge, Mott Haven, and Fordham Heights, where victims were ambushed on the street by masked assailants.
Surveillance footage released by the DA’s office shows the teenage suspect pointing a handgun at a victim’s head while demanding jewelry, as an accomplice waits nearby on a blue moped for a quick getaway.
Victims Targeted and Threatened at Gunpoint
Investigators believe the suspects are gang-affiliated and used cars and mopeds to approach victims rapidly, often brandishing firearms and ordering them to hand over expensive chains, watches, and rings.
“The defendants — including a 16-year-old boy — allegedly put guns to victims’ heads or chests and stole their jewelry in a spree that lasted two weeks,” said DA Clark. “They accosted people of various ages, causing fear on our streets. We are fortunate no one was shot, but many victims were left traumatized.”
All five suspects now face first-degree robbery, conspiracy, grand larceny, and related charges.
Bronx Gun Buyback Initiative
In response to the recent rise in armed robberies, officials announced a no-questions-asked gun buyback event taking place on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church on Jerome Avenue. Participants can exchange firearms for gift cards ranging from $25 to $500, as well as receive free iPads, Apple Watches, or other electronics.
Clark urged residents to take advantage of the program:
“It’s better to turn in illegal firearms now than to see me on the other side of the law,” she said.
The Bronx District Attorney’s Office continues its investigation into the robberies as authorities work to dismantle the group’s network.
Stay with HonkNews.com for more updates on this developing story and the ongoing effort to combat gun violence in New York City.