Chain Snatcher Linked To Glendale Thefts
Within a span of 10 minutes, two women were robbed of their gold necklaces by a crook while walking on Glendale streets last Thursday afternoon, Aug. 2-and police believe the cases are connected to a similar theft in the neighborhood last month, it was reported.
The NYPD released the image of the suspect wanted in connection with the series of larcenies. He was identified as 22-year-old Jamille Spleen.
It is believed by police that he may be acting with the assistance of several unidentified individuals.
Authorities said the first larceny last Thursday took place at around 2:40 p.m. at the corner of Central Avenue and 71st Place.
Law enforcement sources stated that the 76-year-old female victim was walking her dog when she was approached from behind by the suspect.
Reportedly, the perpetrator grabbed the gold chain she was wearing around her neck and ran into a waiting Nissan Altima, which was occupied by several unidentified males. The vehicle then sped away from the scene.
Ten minutes later, police said, the second theft took place at the corner of Cypress Hills Street and Cooper Avenue.
According to authorities, a 63- year-old woman was walking at the location when she was approached from behind by the perpetrator, who grabbed the gold necklace she was wearing and fled from the scene.
Both incidents were reported to the 104th Precinct. Neither of the victims were injured.
Law enforcement sources indicated that they are examining a possible link between the two thefts and a robbery of another 63-year-old woman which happened at about 2:45 p.m. on the afternoon of July 8 at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and 79th Street.
In that incident, police noted, the victim was approached from behind by the suspect and two accomplices, described as African-American males believed to be in their 20s. The suspect reportedly grabbed two gold chains from around the victim’s neck, scratching her in the process.
The three men fled from the scene in an unknown direction.
All three incidents are being investigated by the 104th Precinct Detective Squad, police said.
Spleen stands at 5’10”-tall and weighs about 150 lbs. with his hair braided in cornrows. He was last observed wearing a light-colored t-shirt and gray sweatpants.
Anyone with any information regarding the thefts or Spleen’s whereabouts that could prove helpful is asked to call the 104th Precinct Detective Squad at 1-718-386-2735; all calls will be kept confidential.
