The NYPD is intensifying its focus on migrant pickpocketing crews in New York City, with almost 100 asylum seekers already being monitored by law enforcement sources. Over the weekend, a trio of sticky-fingered individuals allegedly targeted multiple bars in Greenwich Village, picking pockets in under 30 minutes. According to witnesses, these incidents have become a frequent occurrence in recent months, particularly on busy Friday and Saturday nights. The suspects, Oscar Tarazona, Sebastian Baez, and Lina Jacome-Bedoya, all from Colombia, were charged with grand larceny and possession of stolen property after their arrest. Jacome-Bedoya has been previously arrested four times in Manhattan for similar offenses.
Frustrated law enforcement sources are dealing with the challenge of addressing crimes committed by individuals who have limited means of support or legal employment opportunities. Since spring 2022, over 172,000 migrants have arrived in the five boroughs, with approximately 67,500 residing in shelters and hotels. While only a small percentage have engaged in criminal activities, recent incidents have raised concerns about public safety. Business owners, such as bartenders, have also expressed worry about the impact on their establishments and customers’ sense of security. The increase in migrant pickpocketing crews in New York City has prompted the NYPD to heighten its focus on these criminal activities.