The violent attack and robbery of an off-duty NYPD housing officer in the Bronx early on Saturday morning sparked a citywide manhunt and reignited concerns about an increase in assaults on law enforcement officers.
In the Parkchester neighborhood, the 27-year veteran had just finished his shift and was making his way to his car when he was accosted by two black-clad masked guys. The attack took place on St. Peters Avenue at approximately 4:10 a.m.
The attackers put a knife to the officer’s throat, pushed him to the ground, and struck him in the face. Along with his wallet, police ID, and department-issued and personal phones, they also took his pistol belt, which included his service weapon.
Officials claim that the cop was heard begging, “Don’t shoot me!,” while on the phone with a colleague at the time of the event. I work as a police officer. He lost consciousness after being kicked in the head a short while later.
He was taken by emergency personnel to a local hospital, where he received treatment for facial injuries and a cracked eye socket. His condition is still steady.
One suspect, Taveon Hargrove, 23, has been recognized by authorities; he is still at large and is regarded as dangerous and armed. Additionally, Hargrove’s father was detained for allegedly using the officer’s stolen credit card at several local establishments.
The Bronx has seen a recent spike in violent robberies, which includes this attack. To find the culprits, NYPD officials have promised more patrols and investigations. Noting a sharp increase in officer attacks in the last year, police leadership has denounced the attack and pledged to hold those responsible for this horrific ambush accountable.