Police Investigate Possible Pattern Of Attacks In Woodmere, Long Island
WOODMERE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Authorities believe an attack on a woman who was robbed of her engagement ring in Woodmere, Long Island may be part of a pattern.
As CBS 2's John Slattery reported, the 74-year-old woman named Linda was driving into the garage of her home on Longacre Avenue in Woodmere around 2:15 p.m. Tuesday, when she was approached by a man who put his hand over her face and demanded her jewelry, police said.
Just blocks away about two weeks earlier, a 69-year-old woman was entering her garage when she was also robbed.
"I thought he was going to kill me, or bring me into my house and do worse," said the woman, who did not want her name used.
The more recent victim, Linda, lost a $40,000 diamond ring and inexpensive bracelets to the robber. The robbery of the 69-year-old woman was disturbingly similar.
"I then heard the pitter-patter, footsteps, and he put me immediately in a chokehold. I was thrown to the ground; thrown on my knees," the woman said. "He said, 'If you turn around, I'm going to hurt you more. Give me your ring and money.'"
The victim said the robber took her jewelry and the contents of her purse.
"He took my keys, took my wallet -- took everything I own," she said.
The other victim, Linda, believed the woman had been followed home in her car. The 69-year-old victim was sure of it.
"I was cased like they case a house," she said. "Like you said on TV -- it wasn't a random thing. I was set up."
Police say the same car was used in both getaways -- a gray Toyota Corolla with a spoiler on the trunk. A neighbor's security camera got the picture, and she was troubled it was so close to home.
"I think it's disgusting, and I think it's a disgrace," said neighbor Marci Kurtz.
The suspect was described as white or Hispanic man with dark, curly hair and no accent.
Anyone with information about the incidents was asked to call Nassau County Crime Stoppers at (800) 244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.
You Might Also Be Interested In:
