The New York City Police Department (NYPD) has arrested Taveon Hargrove, 23, and is actively seeking Wayne Lucas, 23, following a violent robbery of an off-duty officer in the Bronx. The incident, which occurred early Saturday, left the 27-year-old officer with severe injuries requiring hospitalization. Hargrove was apprehended in Virginia by U.S. Marshals and NYPD detectives, while Lucas remains at large. The suspects allegedly assaulted the officer, causing multiple facial fractures, and stole his wallet, iPhone, and registered firearm before fleeing the scene. The officer’s condition is critical, and his identity has not yet been disclosed.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch condemned the attack, highlighting a recent wave of violence against officers, including assaults with extreme brutality. She emphasized the department’s resolve to pursue justice against those who target law enforcement. ‘Attack one of our own and you will get the full force of the greatest police department in the world coming for you, just like Taveon Hargrove does now,’ Tisch stated in a post on X.
According to a news release, the suspects forced the officer to the ground, inflicted multiple fractures, and used a knife to threaten his throat before forcibly removing his wallet and iPhone. They then took the officer’s registered gun and fled. The officer was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. The incident is part of a series of recent attacks on NYPD officers, including previous reports of severe assaults such as a case where part of an officer’s finger was bitten off and another where part of his ear was bitten off.
The NYPD continues its investigation into the incident, with officials confirming that the officer remains hospitalized. While the officer’s identity has not been released, police have emphasized the seriousness of the attack and the department’s commitment to bringing those responsible to justice. The case is being reviewed by law enforcement authorities, and further details are expected in the coming days.