A $5,000 reward is being offered in the case of four suspects who dressed up like NYPD officers and stormed a bodega in Brooklyn, forcing people to the floor in a terrifying ordeal caught on camera. The incident took place on a Sunday morning in Bedford-Stuyvesant, near Marcus Garvey Boulevard. The suspects brandished guns and forced at least three individuals to the ground inside the store. It remains unclear whether the victims were employees or customers, but thankfully, no injuries were reported.
The United Bodegas of America (UBA), which is providing the reward, reported that the thieves managed to escape with lottery tickets and cash. What’s particularly alarming is that all four suspects were seen wearing NYPD raid jackets, baseball hats, and black ski masks. The UBA believes that this latest incident highlights the urgent need for panic buttons in these establishments, and they intend to communicate this message to the governor.
The call for panic buttons gained momentum following the tragic death of 15-year-old Junior Guzman, who was fatally stabbed in a gang-related attack at a Bronx deli in 2018. The incident occurred after Guzman was mistaken for a rival gang member. Advocates have since been advocating for the installation of panic buttons behind the counter in delis and bodegas. With just one press of a button, deli workers could immediately alert the police in case of an emergency. However, funding has been a major obstacle, with advocates arguing that the few million dollars allocated to small businesses for security measures is insufficient.
“If we had panic buttons, these fake cops would be behind bars today. Our city’s weak bail reforms have turned bodegas into hunting grounds for violent criminals,” stated UBA spokesman Fernando Mateo. “Enough is enough. We demand immediate action to protect the backbone of our neighborhood bodegas.”
The UBA’s stance underscores the vulnerability of these small businesses and the urgent need for enhanced security measures. The recent incident in Brooklyn serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by bodega owners and employees on a daily basis. The implementation of panic buttons could potentially prevent future crimes and ensure the safety of those working in these establishments.
In conclusion, the importance of installing panic buttons in bodegas cannot be overstated. The safety and well-being of bodega workers and customers should be a top priority for lawmakers and officials. The UBA’s call for action must be heeded, and immediate steps should be taken to address the security concerns of these vital community hubs. If we truly value the role that bodegas play in our neighborhoods, then we must ensure that they are equipped with the necessary tools to protect themselves and their patrons.
