Victim’s Identity And New Video Released In Violent Choking Of 91-Year-Old Woman
New video has been released as police search for a suspect in an incident involving a 91-year-old Elizabeth Gioino, who was choked, robbed, and threatened with a handgun.
On Wednesday March 2, 2016, at approximately 1:00pm, the suspect approached Gioino from behind as she entered 551 9th Street (between 8th Avenue and Prospect Park West). The suspect then placed her in a chokehold and displayed a handgun, according to the police.
Police say the incident took place after Gioino arrived at her apartment just after returning from the library.
Video via NYPD
Police released new surveillance video of the suspect.
The suspect is described as a male, black, 40-50 years old, 5’10”-6’0″, and weighing approximately 250 pounds. Cops say he was last seen wearing a dark-colored hooded sweater, a black jacket, a black wool cap, black gloves, light-colored pants, and dark-colored shoes.
CSB News reports Gioino said, “‘Please leave me alone! I’m a sick woman! I’m old enough! Leave me alone!’ He choked me three times, ‘Give me the money, give me the money!’ I don’t have any money.”
In addition the new video, police will be offering an award and believe this mugging is connected to a similar incident that took place last month.
On February 11 at approximately 2:30pm, the same suspect entered the home of a 71-year-old woman. The suspect struck the victim in the head with a handgun and then demanded money. That incident took place in the vicinity of 6th Avenue and Prospect Place, cops say.
Later this morning, Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams will announce that he will personally offer a reward for information leading to the arrest of this suspect. In addition, he will call on the community to be vigilant about the safety of senior citizens.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website or by texting your tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Police say all calls are confidential.