A brazen thief managed to steal a whopping $15,000 from donation boxes inside a Brooklyn synagogue in a daring heist that took place in the early hours of the morning last month. The incident occurred at Congregation Agudath Sholom on 18th Avenue near East 19th Street in Kensington, as reported by authorities and sources familiar with the matter.
The suspect, decked out in a mask and suit, made his way into the synagogue around 1 a.m. on January 25th, according to police. Surveillance footage released by the NYPD showcases the intruder opening the door with precision and moving through the premises undetected.
Dressed in a baseball cap and backpack in addition to his formal attire, the thief made his way through various rooms of the synagogue, targeting multiple donation boxes filled with cash. After swiftly collecting the money, he exited the same way he came in, taking care to lock the door behind him before making his escape.
The suspect was captured on camera leaving the scene and heading east on 18th Avenue, then south on Coney Island Avenue. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident, although it remains unclear whether anyone else was present inside the synagogue at the time of the theft.
As of now, the unidentified thief remains at large, with authorities urging anyone with information to contact the NYPD’s CrimeStoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish speakers. Tips can also be submitted online through the CrimeStoppers website or via @NYPDTips on social media platforms.
The brazen theft serves as a reminder of the importance of security measures in places of worship and the need for vigilance in safeguarding valuable donations meant to support the community.
