Be the first to know

      Topics you care about, straight to your inbox

      Your email address

      Default

      Be the first to know

      Topics you care about, straight to your inbox

      Your email address

        Rideshare drivers are being targeted in robberies, police say

        According to the NYPD, thieves have been hopping into rideshare vehicles, tricking drivers into handing over their phones, and, in some cases, stealing thousands of dollars within seconds through mobile payment apps.

        Edric Robinson

        Feb 7, 2025, 11:37 AM

        Updated 7 hr ago

        Share:

        Police are warning rideshare drivers to stay vigilant after a series of robberies targeting drivers across the city—including incidents in Brooklyn.
        According to the NYPD, thieves have been hopping into rideshare vehicles, tricking drivers into handing over their phones, and, in some cases, stealing thousands of dollars within seconds through mobile payment apps.
        One of the incidents happened in December on East 93rd Street in Canarsie. Police say the suspect got into a dispute with the driver over the drop-off location. When the driver stepped out of the car, the suspect stole $280 in cash and a pair of Apple AirPods before fleeing in a black SUV.
        Another incident in East New York took place near Schroeders Avenue in late November. Police say two suspects snatched a driver’s iPhone and ran off.
        Authorities say at least 22 similar robberies have taken place across Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, with losses totaling more than $37,000. In some cases, the suspects have even assaulted drivers.
        The NYPD has released images and dashcam footage of the suspects and is urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.