Brooklyn, NY – A 10-year-old boy was robbed at knifepoint in Crown Heights Wednesday afternoon by a man who followed him home from school, authorities said. The suspect forced the child to hand over $20 from his piggy bank, which he had earned through chores and good behavior.
Terrifying Incident for Young Student
The victim, Amir Nur, was walking home alone when the suspect approached him and threatened him with a knife. Frightened, Amir went inside his home, retrieved his piggy bank—which had the words “Someone who loves me went to Las Vegas” written on it—and handed over the money to the suspect, who then fled the scene.
Nicole Edite, Amir’s mother, told reporters, “He realized that the man had a knife and he was frightened, and just decided to not give any pushback. He was like, ‘Mom, I just wanted to get him away.’”
Amir had only been allowed to walk home alone for one week before the incident, and now his mother insists he be accompanied until the NYPD apprehends the suspect.
Boy Explains Why He Complied
Amir explained to ABC News that he felt he had no choice but to surrender his savings.
“That’s why I complied. Because if they have a knife on them, I don’t have anything for me. And he’s bigger than me and taller than me and he has a weapon.”
Community Response and Support
In response to the shocking incident, Deputy Mayor Kaz Daughtry gifted Amir an iPad and reimbursed the stolen pocket money. Amir earns his allowance by completing chores, getting good grades, and waking up on time for school.
“What type of person are you to go and rob a 10-year-old?” Daughtry said to ABC NY, expressing outrage at the cowardly act.
Neighborhood Shocked
Edite, who has lived in Crown Heights for 20 years, said the neighborhood has generally been getting safer, making the incident even more startling.
“It’s definitely a shock to know that he’s just crossing the street in broad daylight in the middle of the afternoon and someone would just approach him in such an aggressive manner,” she said.
She added, “I did feel safe, but now I’m having doubts.”
The NYPD continues to search for the suspect, and officials urge anyone with information to come forward.
Have you or someone you know experienced similar crimes in your neighborhood? Share your thoughts and advice in the comments below!
