A string of businesses on Nassau and Norman Avenues in Greenpoint have experienced break-ins and vandalism during the past week.
On Thursday morning at 2:05 a.m. an unidentified man wearing gloves and a round hat was caught on surveillance video using a brick to smash open the Norman Avenue entrance of Bagel Point (699 Manhattan Ave.), gaining entry and emptying the cafe’s register that was holding less than $100.
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The burglar, who appeared in video footage to have knives strapped to his calves, attempted to destroy Bagel Point’s video surveillance system while rummaging for valuables and damaged audio equipment in the process, according to owner Sam Kaplan.
40 minutes later, a man fitting the same description smashed the entrance of the Greenpoint Palace (206 Nassau Ave.) with a brick, destroying the neighborhood bar’s recently restored stained glass while failing to gain entrance.
Palace co-owner Rita Puskas said that she compared surveilance footage with Bagel Point’s confirming that the same person is responsible for both shattered storefronts. “I’m just relieved that no one was hurt,” Puskas said.
Another smashed glass door at at vintage boutique Mahps Kids and Home (181 Nassau Ave.) occurred the week prior, but no items were stolen from the store and it’s unclear if the incident is connected.
The NYPD’s 94th Precinct is currently investigating the break-ins at Bagel Point and The Greenpoint Palace.
at least he was wearing a mask.
Hmmm.
Bagel point is a block away from the 94th precinct, and located on the main drag in Greenpoint.
Strange that no one saw anything ..or responded.
Which allowed the same thing to happen 40 minutes later just 2 blocks away.
Perhaps what should also be “investigated” is the police response,
or lack of it.
Perhaps they were too busy at 2 am on a Thursday morning?
Just asking.
The same thing happened on Franklin Street 2 months ago, at several stores.