Dear Editor:
I’ve never written in to the Reporter before, but I know that in this instance, it is a necessity.
This morning, after dropping my three children off at their three respective school buildings in downtown Hoboken, I walked home on my usual path north along Park Avenue. It was only 9:40 a.m. when I was attacked by a man who tried (unsuccessfully) to steal my iphone.
I know that crimes like this occur more frequently these days which is why this letter doesn’t yet seem newsworthy. However, what happened next is the entire reason I am writing this now.
First, there were three people that came to my aid when they saw me attacked. One kind neighbor, Ellen, called and reported the crime because I was too rattled, and offered to stay with me in the police car for emotional support. Another gentleman, Brandon, a Stevens coach came over to keep me company until the officers arrived.
I was then informed that a man with a drill (most likely a contractor) and a colleague of his, after hearing my scream and seeing the attacker, pursued the criminal all the way to the west side of town near the Light Rail where he was able to point the criminal out to the police officers (while carrying his drill the whole way)!
I was picked up by two officers and taken back to the location where the attacker was apprehended so I could positively identify him. There must have been 8-10 police officers and half as many police cars, both from the HPD and the Stevens Institute of Technology. I want to thank the two officers that I was told apprehended the criminal, Stevens officer (also a retired HPD officer), Bryan Murphy along with HPD Caesar Olavarria. Thank you to Officer Billy Truppner for your comfort, Officer Jill Costello for your kindness and calm. Officer Eddie Lepre and Officer Olavarria, thank you for your kindness and positivity throughout my whole experience at the precinct.
I wish to especially thank the hero with the drill that chased the attacker down. He did so for no other reason than it was right and he is good and he was my hero today.
When something terrible and traumatic like this happens, believe it or not, it is an opportunity for something wonderful.
What I learned today, is that I live in a town where your community, which includes your friends, neighbors, police officers, strangers and good samaritans all come together to protect and care for a friend or a stranger, just someone in need.
Happy holidays (all the holidays that any of us celebrates) to my special town of Hoboken.
Crime stinks but our officers rock!!!
Pamela S.
Hoboken Mom