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Drugstore burglars strike again, hitting 11th NYC pharmacy for $10K in narcotics, police say
By
Charles Lane
Published Mar 6, 2025
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Courtesy NYPD
By
Charles Lane
Published Mar 6, 2025
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A crew of three burglars has hit yet another independent pharmacy — this time on Staten Island — stealing more than $10,000 in narcotics, according to the NYPD.
The break-in marks at least the 11th such robbery in the past few months.
Investigators said the suspects have adapted their tactics, cutting security cameras and switching getaway cars. They recently used this approach in two break-ins — one on Staten Island and another in Jamaica, Queens, officials said.
Since December, the group has targeted small pharmacies by prying open metal gates and smashing windows, authorities said. Once inside, the burglars have stolen cash, prescription drugs and lottery tickets, the NYPD said.
In multiple cases, police said the burglars have fled in cars that match the same descriptions.
In Jamaica, store owner Vlad Amino said the burglars managed to break through his security gate and door. But when residents living above the shop heard the commotion, the thieves fled in a gray Hyundai.
“They try to steal cash and drugs,” Amino said. “People are robbing everything now.”
Police described one suspect as a man between 25 and 35 years old with a thin build. Investigators said the group has recently used a light-colored sedan, including a Hyundai in recent break-ins and an Infiniti in previous ones.
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new york city
public safety
Charles Lane
Charles is a Day-of reporter focused on breaking news and enterprise. He’s very friendly and can be reached at [email protected], or more securely on whatsapp/signal 631-295-6715
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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