Police: Chocobar restaurant latest target in South Bronx burglary pattern

Police are searching for suspects believed to be involved in a string of South Bronx burglaries.

News 12 Staff

Oct 28, 2022, 9:58 PM

Updated 707 days ago

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Police are searching for suspects believed to be involved in a string of South Bronx burglaries.
Chocobar became the latest target Friday morning. Just before 2 a.m., police say a suspect stole a register from the restaurant.
This break-in marks the third time the restaurant has been vandalized in the past two weeks.
Footage from the first incident on Oct. 11 shows an individual entering the restaurant’s kitchen after throwing what police say was a rock through its side glass door. The suspect can be seen running behind the bar and stealing a cash register, which contained $200.
Police say the second attempt occurred Thursday morning but was unsuccessful due to the owner installing reinforced glass. Currently, it is unclear if it is the same robber.
"It's really disheartening, it crushes your motivation and your attitude. It makes you wonder, what are my options?” said Carlos Cortes, the restaurant’s owner.
According to the Michael Brady, CEO of the Third Avenue Business Improvement District, Cortes isn't the only victim thinking the same thought.
"I’ve had conversations with all the business owners and there are 4 or 5 that say if they don't get assistance, they're going to be out over the next 2 or 3 months,” he said.
Brady believes there must be more police presence and better lighting in the area where petty and violent crime are on the rise.
As the search for the suspects continues, the owner says he will be investing in more security measures to protect his restaurant.