Summary:

Over 50 NYC businesses targeted in a brazen ATM theft spree.
Thieves, known as "Midnight Smashers," use various methods to steal ATMs.
A $5,000 bounty is offered for information leading to the arrest of the suspects.
NYPD's new pursuit policy restricting chases for non-violent crimes faces criticism for potentially emboldening criminals.
NYPD defends the policy, citing safety concerns and the use of advanced policing tools.

NYC's ATM Bandit Spree: A City Under Siege

New York City is facing a brazen crime spree targeting small businesses. A group of thieves, dubbed the "Midnight Smashers," have hit over 50 locations, stealing ATMs with a shocking level of audacity.

The Modus Operandi

These criminals employ various methods, from using vans and tow chains to yank ATMs from the ground to simply carrying them out of stores by hand. The United Bodegas of America (UBA) has offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to their arrest.

NYPD Response and Controversy

The NYPD believes three individuals are responsible and are using stolen vehicles. However, their new pursuit policy, which restricts chases for non-violent crimes, has drawn criticism from business owners and the UBA. They argue that this policy emboldens criminals and allows low-level crimes to escalate.

The NYPD defends the policy, citing safety concerns and the availability of advanced policing tools. Despite the criticism, the NYPD has announced increased overnight subway patrols in response to recent transit crime concerns.

The Stakes are High

This ATM theft spree underscores a growing concern about crime in NYC and the effectiveness of current crime-fighting strategies. The UBA emphasizes the need for accountability at all levels of criminal activity, arguing that ignoring low-level crimes allows them to escalate into more serious offenses. The thieves remain at large, and the investigation continues.

Source: Fox News