ATM thefts continue to impact Brooklyn’s small businesses
ATM thefts have become a troubling trend across Brooklyn, significantly impacting small businesses and residents. Imagine walking into a deli or supermarket, only to find that the ATM you relied on has been stolen. This has become all too common in the borough.
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"Those machines are very heavy. I wonder how they did that?" said Archibold, a local Brooklynite.
Since June, more than a dozen ATMs have been stolen, according to the NYPD. The pattern shows no signs of slowing down.
"I'm always skeptical about using ATMs in delis. I typically use them in a trusted location like a bank," shared Nyasia, another concerned resident.
The NYPD has released photos of individuals they believe could be responsible for these thefts. Most of the targeted locations are delis and small businesses, leading many community members to feel unsafe.
"People pay a lot of money for this neighborhood. I've been working here for 10 years, and nothing bad has happened before," expressed Pimentl, a local resident.
A map detailing specific locations where ATMs have been stolen highlights neighborhoods such as Bed-Stuy, Williamsburg and Fort Greene, suggesting that many popular spots could have been targeted.
"I'm shocked and appalled. How did they even steal them? There are so many questions," said Siphus Steele, a concerned Brooklynite.
As these robberies continue, local shoppers remain on high alert. The impact of these crimes extends beyond just stolen machines, it disrupts the daily lives of both residents and business owners.
"It's also sad for the people who rely on the business of vending ATMs. Many make their livelihood by providing access to cash," Steele added.
For now, some Brooklynites are taking extra precautions when using ATMs in delis and local stores. The NYPD encourages anyone with information regarding these thefts to contact Crime Stoppers.
