A 71-year-old man who had just won a significant amount of money at Jake’s 58 Casino Hotel in Islandia, Long Island, was robbed in the parking lot on September 7, according to the Suffolk County Police Department.
Authorities said Aaron Hayes, 24, took cash from the winner’s pocket and fled around 3:40 p.m. Police stated that Hayes “realized he had stolen only a small amount,” and returned to confront the man again. He knocked the victim over and searched his coat for more money.
Two bystanders intervened while Hayes was searching the man’s pockets. Police credited these individuals as good Samaritans for stopping further theft.
Hayes was later arrested outside his home in Port Jefferson Station, which is located in Brookhaven on Long Island. He has been charged with third-degree robbery. His legal representation was not immediately known.
Hayes was scheduled to appear in court for arraignment on September 8.
Detectives from Suffolk County are seeking additional information about the incident. Anyone with tips is encouraged to contact the department’s Fourth Squad at 631-854-8452.
