NYPD Brings New Scooter to Williamsburg Girl After Robbery

By Yisroel R.

The 9-year-old Williamsburg girl who was knocked down to the ground and robbed of her scooter last Sunday night received a surprise visit Monday night from the NYPD, as officers came to her home with a brand-new scooter and toys to help comfort her and reassure the family that they are not alone and the case is being taken seriously. 

The robbery happened on Sunday night, December 21, near the intersection of Skillman Street and Myrtle Avenue. Police say the girl was riding her pink stand-up scooter when an unidentified man approached her, pushed her to the ground, stole the scooter, and fled the area.  

In a show of compassion, NYPD Detective Kenneth “Kenny” Melendez, who serves on the executive staff to Brooklyn North Chief Vazquez, took it upon himself to visit the family and bring the child a new scooter. The visit was meant not only to replace what was taken, but also to let the family know that crimes targeting children will not be tolerated and that police are committed to finding the suspect. 

Detective Melendez was joined by Yidel Lichtenstein, liaison of the 79th Precinct, Shomrim Coordinator Yanky Itzkowitz, Detective Chris Charles and Detective Guthrie of the 79th Precinct Community Affairs unit. The scooter was generously sponsored by philanthropist Yossi Itzkowitz of Toys4U, who stepped in to help bring a smile back to the young victim after a traumatic experience. 

Family members said the visit was an emotional moment of compassion and kindness shown by the NYPD, and a powerful reminder that beyond investigations and arrests, community relations, acts of kindness and reassurance can make a real difference, especially when a child is involved.