New York City, NY – A 20-year-old NYPD cadet and his 22-year-old girlfriend were robbed at gunpoint during a terrifying early-morning encounter in Chelsea, according to police and law enforcement sources. The shocking incident unfolded around 3:45 a.m. on Monday near West 25th Street and Seventh Avenue, shaking the normally quiet neighborhood.
Authorities reported that the cadet, who is part of the NYPD’s paid internship program for college students, was sitting in his car with his girlfriend when two armed men suddenly approached the vehicle.
“Give Us What You Have,” Suspect Demands
According to police sources, one of the suspects pointed a gun at the couple and demanded, “Give us what you have and don’t mess around.”
Fearing for their lives, the woman quickly handed over her boyfriend’s wallet, which contained cash, credit cards, and his NYPD-issued ID. However, that didn’t satisfy the assailants.
One of the gunmen reportedly hit the cadet in the face with his weapon and growled, “You got more than that.” The frightened cadet then pulled an unspecified amount of cash from his car’s center console and handed it over to the robbers, according to The Post.
Suspects Flee Scene in Black BMW
After taking the valuables, the armed pair fled in a black BMW with New York license plates, police said. Surveillance systems later picked up the vehicle’s license plate traveling through the Queens Midtown Tunnel, suggesting the suspects were heading toward Queens.
Investigators believe the getaway was well-coordinated, as the suspects appeared to know their escape route. Police have since reviewed camera footage from the surrounding area and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Police Describe Suspects
Law enforcement sources provided descriptions of the robbers:
- One suspect was seen wearing all black clothing.
- The second suspect was dressed in a white camouflage hoodie paired with black jeans.
Both men remain at large, and detectives from the NYPD’s Manhattan South Robbery Squad are actively working to track them down.
A Reminder of Rising Street Crime
The Chelsea neighborhood, known for its nightlife and residential appeal, has seen several incidents of street crime in recent months. This latest case underscores growing concerns about late-night safety across Manhattan.
Authorities urge residents and visitors to remain vigilant, avoid idling in parked cars during early hours, and immediately report suspicious activity.
What do you think about this bold robbery targeting a police cadet?
Should NYC law enforcement take stronger action against rising street crimes in the city? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
