4 Arrested in Monday's Mount Vernon Homicide

MOUNT VERNON, NY — Mayor Richard Thomas and the Mount Vernon Police announced a series of arrests in a multi-jurisdictional robbery spree and shooting death.

Four men have been arrested and charged in connection with the death of 24-year-old Trevon Boswell, a Mount Vernon resident, on May 22.

“This homicide was solved in less than 24 hours due to a simple iPhone ping that enabled our officers to move fast and apprehend the suspects," Acting Commissioner Shawn Harris said in an announcement about the arrests. "Modern technology, from drones to video cameras, means more eyes on the street."

They are also believed to be connected to a series of robberies in neighboring jurisdictions including Yonkers, New Rochelle, and New York City, police said.

• Sincere Smith DOB 5/10/95 Charge: Murder in the Second
• Eric Lee DOB 12/10/91 Charge: Murder in the Second
• Allen Copeland DOB 1/24/96 Charge: Attempted Murder
• John Oquendo DOB 6/2/96 Charge: Criminal Possession of a Weapon, 3rd Degree

In early April, the Mount Vernon Police Department implemented “High Intensity Patrol Zones” or HIPZ. HIPZ targets designated “hot spots” in the city that will receive special police attention.

The HIPZ has been incorporated into the 4-12 police tour and includes the Mobile Command Center, the Mount Vernon Emergency Services Unit, and the Motorcycle Patrol Checkpoint to enforce traffic laws.

“The new leadership of the Mount Vernon Police Department has brought this case to a swift resolution," Mayor Richard Thomas said. "We are implementing 21st century policing initiatives – using technology and programs like HIPZ to invest in public safety and make our Department more efficient and better equipped to combat crime. The people of Mount Vernon deserve a police force that is equipped with the tools necessary to get the job done and, as Mayor, I will not rest until the department is fully supported. I urge the City Council and Comptroller Walker to join me in supporting our dedicated men and women in law enforcement.”

PHOTOS/ courtesy City of Mount Vernon

SEE ALSO:

• One Death, One Stolen Cell Phone: Mount Vernon Police
• Arrest in Monday's Fatal Shooting in Mount Vernon
  
• $700K Microsoft Investment in Mount Vernon Police Technology: WATCH