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Suspect Nabbed In Westchester Robbery Spree

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y. - A 20-year-old man is facing charges in multiple Westchester County municipalities for his role in this week's armed robbery spree, police said on Thursday.

John Oquendo

John Oquendo

Photo Credit: Yonkers Police Department

On Wednesday, John Oquendo from the Bronx was charged with a felony count of first-degree robbery in Yonkers after allegedly being involved in an armed robbery at Break to the Border on McLean Avenue early on Monday morning, police said. He is also facing a weapons charge in Mount Vernon. 

Oquendo was arrested on Monday in Mount Vernon after he and three alleged co-conspirators were allegedly involved in a string of robberies in southern Westchester. Police in Yonkers, New Rochelle and Mount Vernon have reportedly been investigating Oquendo and his cohorts since the incidents on Monday.

The hunt for the alleged robbers began at approximately 3 a.m. on Monday morning in New Rochelle when two men reported being robbed and pistol whipped before their attackers took off in a taxi, police said.

Mount Vernon police said that a cell phone that was stolen in the process was tracked down using location-tracing software within the iPhone, and four suspects were approached by police on South 10th Avenue in the city. Three men fled, but Oquendo was apprehended by police and a handgun was recovered at the scene of the arrest.

Police are also investigating a Monday morning homicide in Mount Vernon. It is not yet known if the incident is related to the robbery string.

“Modern technology has made 21st century policing more efficient, more collaborative and given better results,” Mount Vernon Mayor Thomas stated. “The people of Mount Vernon deserve a police force that is equipped with the tools necessary to get the job done, and, as mayor, I will not rest until the department is fully supported.”

Oquendo remains remanded to the Westchester County Jail, where he is being held without bail. He is due back in court later this year. Police said the investigation is ongoing.

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