St. James store owner pulls tire iron on robber

St. James, NY (SmithtownRadio.com) – A St. James store owner was not about to become a victim. He pulled a tire iron on a man attempting to rob his store Thursday.

Joseph Hogan, 33, entered a stationery store, located at 246 Lake Ave., and attempted to steal money from the register. The owner attempted to stop Hogan and a struggle ensued over the cash register. Hogan fled when the owner brought out a tire iron.

Responding Officers Michael Cummings and Robert Golini arrived at the scene and observed a crowd of people pointing to a male matching the suspect’s description. The officers took Hogan into custody.

Fourth Squad detectives charged Hogan, of  Holbrook, with Attempted Robbery 3rd Degree and Menacing 2nd Degree. Hogan is scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on February 10.

The investigation is continuing.

Detectives ask anyone who has information regarding this incident to contact the Fourth Squad at 631-854-8452 or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS. All calls will be kept confidential.