WESTCHESTER, N.Y. (1010 WINS) — Two men from New Jersey were arrested on Tuesday for a smash-and-grab robbery at a Westchester jewelry store in December that led to a loss of $1.7 million, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Matthew Podolsky announced.
Kevin Williams and Byron Wilson, both of Irving, are charged with Hobbs Act Robbery and conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery in the Dec. 16 crime.
On the morning of the robbery, Williams and Byron drove a stolen vehicle with a stolen license plate to New York, arriving at Westchester Square shopping plaza in Hartsdale at about 11:07, prosecutors said.
They are accused of exiting their vehicle and sledgehammering their way into the store while customers were frightened inside, officials said.
Kevin Williams and Byron Wilson holding stacks of cash gained from selling goods stolen at Westchester Square shopping plaza in Hartsdale on Dec. 16.U.S. Attorney
Kevin Williams and Byron Wilson holding stacks of cash gained from selling goods stolen at Westchester Square shopping plaza in Hartsdale on Dec. 16.U.S. Attorney
Once inside the store, the duo allegedly smashed jewelry display cases and stole about $1.7 million in jewelry, diamonds and luxury watches. They soon after return to their vehicle with bags of stolen goods.
They briefly returned to New Jersey before Williams, 26, drove to the Diamond District in New York City. Wilson, 24, returned to their shared residence.
A few hours later, prosecutors said the men and their co-conspirators took photos of them holding large stacks of cash.
"Armed with sledgehammers, the defendants smashed their way in and then plundered the store of about $1.7 million in jewelry, diamonds, and luxury watches, all while innocent customers and employees hid for their safety," Podolsky said. "Today's arrests should make clear that if you commit such brazen and dangerous crimes in this District, we will find you and hold you responsible."
