Wes Parnell
New York Daily News
Two crooks ambushed a 14-year-old boy in Lower Manhattan, punching him repeatedly as they robbed him of his jacket and bag, disturbing video released by cops Sunday shows.
The men jumped the teenager outside of the Bowery Mission Tribeca Campus, a homeless shelter and food kitchen on Lafayette St. near White St., about 11:30 a.m. Friday, according to police.
One robber sucker-punched the teenager in the face before the heartless duo pressed him up against scaffolding and pummeled him as they ripped off his bag and jacket.
After the muggers ran off, the boy was taken to New York-Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital, where he was expected to recover.
Two hours after the attack cops arrested one of the alleged assailants, Charlie Destefano, 35, across the street from the scene. He was charged with robbery causing physical injury, robbery aided by another and endangering the welfare of a child.
Destefano is listed as living at the Bowery Mission Tribeca Campus, previously known as the New York City Rescue Mission, according to police.
The Bowery Mission Tribeca Campus did not immediately respond to a request for comment Sunday.
Cops are asking the public’s help identifying and tracking down the second attacker.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS. All calls will be kept confidential.
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