LI Man Indicted On 54 Charges For Larceny Spree: Nassau DA

A West Hempstead man is facing more than 50 charges for allegedly stealing credit cards, debit cards and more from cars throughout Nassau County.

Alex Hines, 47, was arraigned today and charged with two counts of third-degree grand larceny, four counts of fourth-degree grand larceny, 20 counts of fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, three counts of third-degree criminal mischief, first-degree scheme to defraud, three counts of second-degree identity theft, 10 counts of third-degree identity theft and 11 counts of petty larceny. All told, there are 54 counts against him.

He is due back in court on Oct. 7. If convicted of the top charges, he could face seven years in prison.

“For more than a year, this defendant broke into cars across Nassau County and allegedly stole more than $10,000 during this crime spree,” said Nassau County District Attorney Madeline Singas. “Thanks to great detective work, this defendant was apprehended and will now be accountable for his alleged crimes. This case is a reminder to lock your car doors and to take any items of value with you before you leave your car.”

According to Singas, between February 2018 and April 2019, Hines broke into 13 cars across the county and stole credit cards, debit cards, gift cards, cash and other items. Singas said that he used the cards at CVS, Home Depot, Rite Aid and 7-Eleven stores to buy gift cards, which he then sold for cash to purchase drugs and food.

Singas said that he broke into cars outside of homes and CVS stores in Oyster Bay, Hicksville, Valley Stream, Syosset, Bethpage, Rockville Centre, East Meadow, Roslyn, Franklin Square and Hempstead.

In many instances, the cards, wallets and other items were left out in plain view in parked cars or glove compartments, consoles and on the floor, Singas said. If the vehicle was locked, Hines allegedly shattered a window to gain entry.

Hines was arrested by Nassau County detectives on May 11.