Luxury winter coats targeted in string of Queens robberies, NYPD issues warning

"Acting in concert, the individuals made a statement, punched the victim in the face and forcibly removed the victim's hood from his Moose Knuckles jacket. The NYPD said on Monday they arrested 19-year-old Josue Montes and charged him with seven clothing robberies that occurred between Dec. 15 and Feb. 25. The stolen property included sneakers, bags and Moose Knuckles jackets and were taken at knifepoint, police said."

"NYPD Officer John Williams warned of the coat thefts at a recent community meeting in the 110th Precinct in Corona, Queens. He cited three robberies of Moose Knuckles jackets: one where the assailant brandished a knife and two others where machetes were used."

"The much sought-after Moose Knuckles brand has partnered with various celebrities, including musicians Alanis Morissette and Post Malone, and sells for as much as $1,600 at Neiman Marcus. Police departments in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., have issued similar warnings of potential coat-jackings in recent months, involving brands such as The North Face, Canada Goose and Moose Knuckles."

NYPD and school officials are alerting the public about robberies targeting luxury winter coats, specifically the high-end Moose Knuckles brand priced up to $1,600. Multiple violent incidents have occurred across New York City precincts, including robberies at knifepoint and with machetes. In one incident, five teenagers attacked a 15-year-old boy at a Jackson Heights subway station, punching him and forcibly removing his Moose Knuckles jacket hood. Police arrested a 19-year-old charged with seven clothing robberies between December and February involving sneakers, bags, and Moose Knuckles jackets taken at knifepoint. Officers advise residents to remain vigilant and aware of surroundings. Similar warnings have been issued by police departments in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., regarding coat robberies involving premium brands.

Read at Gothamist