NYPD Investigates 'Pepper Spray Crew' Targeting Taxi Drivers

The 'Pepper Spray Crew' Attacks

• 🎯 A group of young criminals, dubbed the "Pepper Spray Crew," are targeting and robbing taxi drivers in New York City.
• ⚔️ These assailants use pepper spray and sometimes knives to incapacitate drivers before stealing cash and credit cards.
• 💰 One victim, Juan Guan, described being pepper-sprayed by two passengers who then stole $300 and used his credit cards.

Scope and Modus Operandi

• 📈 Police report nearly two dozen such attacks this year, with at least 19 confirmed victims according to the New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers.
• 🚕 The crew targets drivers from various services, including Uber, Lyft, and Yellow Cabs.
• 🏙️ It is believed the perpetrators operate in outer boroughs and travel to Midtown Manhattan to commit crimes, thinking it's easier to escape.

Calls for Action and Accountability

• 🗣️ Leaders of the Taxi Federation are urging the Manhattan District Attorney to take stronger action against the suspects.
• ⚖️ Despite multiple arrests, suspects are reportedly being released, leading to repeated offenses.
• 📢 The DA's office has stated they are taking the matter seriously and are working with the NYPD on an open investigation to identify and hold all involved accountable.
• ⚠️ Taxi Federation leaders also highlighted a recent discovery of a robbery pattern, suggesting a potential communication issue with the NYPD.