Port Authority Mugging Victim: Witnesses Took Pictures, Didn't Call For Help
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The Carnegie Deli manager who was mugged in front of the Port Authority Bus Terminal on Monday morning claims witnesses took out their cell phones to take pictures of the attack rather than calling for help.
At around 5:45 a.m. Monday, police said 31-year-old Sassony Bryant approached Jose Robles, 52, from behind while he attempted to hail a cab.
Bryant then allegedly punched Robles, who fell to the ground, police said.
In an attempt to get away from his attacker, Robles got up and ran inside the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Bryant allegedly chased after him and demanded his cell phone while continuing the assault, police said.
Robles told 1010 WINS bystanders ignored his pleas for help.
"I just couldn't understand why at least one person. It was at least eight minutes from the first punch," he said.
The deli manager said New Yorkers need to help each other out in times of need.
"Don't stay quiet. Don't stand there and do nothing. Try to help. The next person could be you. If we don't help each other than where are we going? You see things going on everyday and people just turn their backs, they don't want to get involved," he said.
Robles told 1010 WINS he always calls police when he feels their presence is needed while he's working, and that everyone should do the same.
"There's always incidents and I'm always calling the cops. They are either bothering the customers or anybody that's just passing by. They're harassing people and I'm always calling trying to help people out," he said.
Bryant was arrested at Port Authority Bus Terminal and charged with attempted robbery and assault.
Check Out These Other Stories From CBSNewYork.com: