The suspect who robbed NYPD officer Tramaine Oxley Tuesday night in East New York, is no stranger to the law.
U.S. marshals caught up with 22-year-old Tori Saunders in Nassau County, after he was spotted by two officers a day after the shooting.
Saunders has been arrested more than 20 times, according to the NY Daily News. NYPD investigators say Saunders robbed Oxley of his cash and jewelry at gunpoint, then drove off in a BMW. Oxley was in the passenger seat of his cousin’s Range Rover at the time. As the pair was driving away, police say the suspect shot at them, Oxley returned fire. He was hit in the left arm. The same bullet also ripped past his chest, causing a graze wound, officials say.
Oxley’s cousin drove him to the hospital, where he was treated for a minor injury. The 10-year veteran had been out sick for a few days after suffering a leg injury, and says he wasn’t driving at the time due to the brace on his leg.
Police say they don’t believe the off-duty officer was targeted because he’s a cop. “It appears now it was a straight up robbery attempt,” the Police Commissioner said.
Police are still looking for a second robber.
