Queens, New York – A 16-year-old teenager is facing charges for allegedly shoving a 68-year-old woman in front of a church, causing her to fall to the ground, and then robbing her, according to Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. The violent incident, which left the elderly woman in critical condition, has shocked the community.
The teenager, whose name is being withheld due to his age, has also been charged in connection with another robbery that took place a few days prior. Katz described the accused as committing the robbery with extreme brutality, pushing the victim down the stairs, taking her purse, and fleeing in her car.
The attack occurred as the 68-year-old victim was on her way to church, walking up a flight of stairs when the teenager allegedly pushed her, causing her to fall and hit her head on the concrete. Surveillance footage captured the disturbing event, showing the teen stealing the victim’s purse, which contained money, a cellphone, a credit card, and car keys, before driving off in her Nissan Altima.
Authorities arrested the teen near his home following the incident. Additionally, he has been linked to another robbery on April 4, where he allegedly demanded money and keys from a woman in an elevator, indicating he had a weapon. The victim complied, surrendering her belongings as the teenager drove off in her car.
The teenager now faces a slew of charges for both incidents, including assault, robbery, grand larceny, and criminal possession of stolen property. If convicted, he could potentially face up to 25 years in prison. This series of violent actions has raised concerns about safety and security in the community, prompting calls for stricter measures to protect vulnerable individuals from such acts of violence.