2 days ago
Homeless man accused of trying to kidnap boy, 6, in Coney Island
CONEY ISLAND, Brooklyn (PIX11) — A homeless man is accused of trying to kidnap a 6-year-old boy who was walking with his mother in Coney Island Sunday night, police said.
Johnathan Robalino, 36, was arrested and charged with assault, attempted kidnapping, and failure to exercise control of a minor, according to the NYPD.
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Police said the boy was nearly abducted while walking with his mother on a sidewalk near Stillwell and Surf avenues in Coney Island at around 10 p.m.
Robalino allegedly picked up the child and started to flee before eventually throwing him to the ground, authorities said.
The boy was taken to the hospital with pain and bruising, according to authorities.
The suspect was arrested shortly after the incident. Robalino's arraignment was pending on Monday.
Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).
Mira Wassef is a digital reporter who has covered news and sports in the NYC area for more than a decade. She has been with PIX11 News for two years. See more of her work here.
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