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VIDEO: Machete-Wielding Robbery Crew Hits Chelsea Eatery, Police Say

By Aidan Gardiner | September 15, 2014 3:45pm
Masked-Men Steal Cash Register from Chelsea Restaurant, Police say
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NYPD

MANHATTAN — A machete-wielding man and two accomplices ripped a cash register from the counter of a high-end Mexican restaurant in Chelsea while stunned patrons sat at the bar Friday night, police said.

A masked suspect walked into Crema, at 111 W. 17th St., about 10:30 p.m. and pulled out the long blade as he demanded in Spanish that the restaurant turn over its cash, according to the NYPD.

Investigators released footage showing one of the suspects walk behind the bar, point to someone off camera and then wrap both arms around the cash register and run off with it. Police could not say how much money was stolen.

Patrons were still in the restaurant, which closes at 11 p.m. on Fridays, and a man in the video can be seen sitting at the bar watching the robbery unfold.

The trio of thieves all believed to be in their 20s, escaped west on West 17th Street, according to the NYPD.

It was not clear if the other two thieves were armed.

Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477).