Brooklyn – Councilman David G. Greenfield is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the group of men seen on surveillance video violently beating and robbing a Jewish man in Crown Heights just as Hurricane Sandy was making landfall on Monday night.

Surveillance video posted on crownheights.info shows a man standing at the corner of Albany Avenue and President Street as the victim, identified in news reports as 21-year-old Jeremy Furchtgott, approaches at about 7 p.m. The suspect suddenly tripped the unsuspecting Furchtgott, knocking him to the ground. Several other men then suddenly appeared and joined the attack, repeatedly punching and kicking the victim before fleeing the scene with his wallet and cell phone. One of the men is even seen stomping on Furchtgott’s head before leaving him on the ground.

According to a report in the Daily News, Furchtgott was found lying on the sidewalk motionless moments after the attack by a passerby who was walking home from a Talmud study session. The Good Samaritan tried to call 911 but was unable to get through due to a high call volume from the hurricane. A Shomrim Safety Patrol volunteer arrived at the scene a few minutes later and was able to personally summon police to respond. Unfortunately, a canvas of the area was unsuccessful and the suspects are still at large.

“This beating and robbery by a group of thugs is sickening and needs to be fully investigated by the NYPD. I am hopeful that somebody in the area witnessed this attack and can help track these cowards down. We cannot allow criminals to take our streets over during times of crisis or natural disaster. We must also ensure that this disturbing incident receives the necessary attention and resources. That’s why I am asking the NYPD to make this investigation a priority, and offering a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of these criminals,” said Councilman Greenfield.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call the NYPD Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS.

(YWN Desk – NYC)