Quantcast

DNA helps cops nab Ridgewood car thief

HandcuffsPrintsHC1010_L_300_C_Y2-624×468

An alleged Ridgewood car thief was brought in by cops last week after DNA testing from items left behind at the scene connected him to the crime, police stated.

The suspect, identified by police as Alfredo Santiago, 41, of Bushwick, reportedly dropped a backpack containing three screwdrivers and personal items taken from the car during the September 2014 robbery.

According to authorities, during the incident, the owner of the vehicle approached his car, which was parked outside of 1856 Troutman St., at approximately 3:40 a.m. on Sept. 28 when he saw Santiago step out of his car and display what appeared to be a firearm.

Police said that Santiago then threatened to shoot the victim before he fled the scene, dropping the backpack containing the screwdrivers that led to his arrest.

Genetic evidence recovered from one of the screwdrivers was tested and found to match Santiago’s DNA profile.

Santiago was arraigned on April 22 before Queens Supreme Court Justice Stephanie Zaro on first-degree robbery, possession of burglar’s tools and fourth-degree criminal mischief. His bail was set at $30,000, and he is scheduled to return to court on May 6.

RECOMMENDED STORIES