Man accused of stealing van with infant inside appears in court
The judge issued the suspect, Victor Matos, a full order of protection against the mother of the child, Laquana Ruis.
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A man who police say stole a van with a 6-month-old baby inside in Mott Haven on Sunday appeared in court on Monday.
MORE: NYPD: Baby found safe following stolen car incident in Mott Haven; 53-year-old in custody
Victor Matos, 53, is now facing charges of grand larceny, kidnapping and criminal possession of stolen property, among other charges.
A Bronx criminal court judge has set Matos’ bail at $100,000 in cash, but Matos was remanded due to a warrant for his arrest that was out for a case that took place last November that also involved a stolen car.
The NYPD says that Matos parked the van and walked away before he was approached by officers. Matos’ defense team says that Matos led those officers to the van, where the infant was found safe and unharmed. The car was found in Hunts Point almost two hours after it was reported missing.
The judge issued Matos a full order of protection against the mother of the child, Laquana Ruis.
Matos’ parole officer spoke in court on Monday, stating that he is a flight risk who has repeatedly failed to appear in court and has faced several other charges.
Matos’ next court appearance in June 21, where he will make his first appearance in front of a grand jury.
