Off-Duty Cop Brutally Beaten and Robbed Released from Hospital

Introduction to the Incident

NYPD officer Chowdhury Nafees leaves the hospital after a brutal beating, robbery in the Bronx.

Photo: Martin Johnson of NYC Health + Hosptials/Jacobi | North Central Bronx

A brave NYPD officer was released from the hospital as the suspects who brutally beat and robbed him in the Bronx last week were arrested. Officer Chowdhury Nafees was released from NYC Health and Hospitals/Jacobi on May 28, four days after two suspects allegedly attacked and robbed him of his personal belongings, including his department-issued gun on Saturday.

Details of the Attack

After undergoing surgery for his injuries, including multiple broken bones, the 27-year-old Nafees left the hospital on Thursday surrounded by hundreds of cheering family, friends, hospital workers and fellow officers, happy to see him recovering after the vicious attack. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch was also on site to greet Nafees and shake his hand. Law enforcement sources said the horrific incident happened at about 4 a.m. on May 24 near 1473 St. Peters Ave. in Westchester Square within the confines of the 45th Precinct.
NYPD officer Chowdhury Nafees leaves the hospital after a brutal beating, robbery in the Bronx.Photo: Martin Johnson of NYC Health + Hosptials/Jacobi | North Central Bronx
Nafees had just ended his shift and was off duty at the time of the attack.

The Assault and Robbery

Police said the two perps forced the 27-year-old officer to the ground, striking him in the face while holding a knife to his throat. As the attack ensued, the suspects stole the officer’s belongings, including his wallet, iPhone and firearm. The suspects fled the scene before paramedics arrived and rushed the severely injured officer to the hospital in critical condition.

Arrest of the Suspects

Both suspects in the attack were found and arrested this week. U.S. Marshals’ found and arrested 23-year-old Taveon Hargrove in Virginia. Hargrove’s father was busted for allegedly using the Nafees’ stolen credit card at multiple stores in the Bronx, sources said. The other suspect, 23-year-old Wayne Lucas was also taken into custody in Virginia, Tisch said on Wednesday. “I’m pleased to announce that this afternoon, Wayne Lucas was taken into custody in Virginia just as the officer he so brutally assaulted was discharged from the hospital to the cheers of his NYPD family,” she said. “Come for one of us, and you’ll have the full force of the NYPD coming for you.” Surveillance video helped detectives track down the suspects. It is unclear right now what charges the suspects face.

Conclusion

The release of Officer Nafees from the hospital and the arrest of the suspects bring a sense of relief and justice to the community. The NYPD’s swift action in apprehending the suspects demonstrates their commitment to protecting their own and upholding the law. The community comes together to support the officer and his family during this difficult time, and the incident serves as a reminder of the dangers and challenges faced by law enforcement officers every day.

FAQs

• Q: What happened to Officer Chowdhury Nafees?
  A: Officer Nafees was brutally beaten and robbed while off duty in the Bronx.
• Q: What were the suspects arrested for?
  A: The suspects, Taveon Hargrove and Wayne Lucas, were arrested for the assault and robbery of Officer Nafees.
• Q: How were the suspects caught?
  A: The suspects were caught with the help of surveillance video and U.S. Marshals in Virginia.
• Q: What is the current status of Officer Nafees?
  A: Officer Nafees has been released from the hospital after undergoing surgery for his injuries.
• Q: What was the reaction of the NYPD Commissioner?
  A: NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch expressed her satisfaction with the arrest of the suspects and welcomed Officer Nafees’ release from the hospital.