STORM WATCH

Morning snow followed by deep cold this week on Long Island

Police: Suspect wanted for burglarizing Hewlett restaurant

Police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man who burglarized a Hewlett restaurant early Saturday morning.

Liz Burke

Sep 15, 2024, 10:06 AM

Updated 96 days ago

Share:

Police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man who burglarized a Hewlett restaurant early Saturday morning.
Authorities say the man was caught on surveillance video breaking into Geffen Gourmet on Mill Road after 5 a.m.
The owners say the burglary happened in the Kosher market and eatery section of the family business.
In the first video, the male suspect with a backpack can be seen approaching the eatery from the back lot. In the second video, taken by a Ring camera, the suspect is seen trying to open the cash register.
Owner of Geffen Gourmet Gitit Malka said he got in the register and stole $100. She didn’t find out about the burglary until several hours later when her husband arrived Saturday night to find the back door wide open and the money stolen.
“The alarm company called us to say the alarm went off. We didn’t answer because of the Sabbath, so they should’ve called the police,” Malka said.
She also said that the suspect also tried to manipulate the alarm using an ADT iPad, became frustrated and then threw it on the floor.
“It’s a shame that in a location like this, in Hewlett, somebody could just come and break the door, break the alarm,” Malka added.
The suspect stole a small safe, left through the back door and fled in an unknown direction, according to police.
Anyone with information about the suspect’s identity or whereabouts is urged to call 1-800-244-TIPS.