Police: Pair Tried to Rob 2 Gas Stations in 15 Minutes

Two men were arrested Saturday evening after they tried to rob two gas stations in Coram within 15 minutes of each other, police said.

According to police, 27-year-old Tony Taddonio, of Medford, entered the Sunoco station located at 3423 Route 112 at about 6 p.m. armed with what appeared to be a handgun and attempted to hold up the clerk.

The clerk grabbed a stick he kept behind the counter and Taddonio fled without any proceeds to a 2003 Acura being driven by 27-year-old Michael Iovino, of Islip, police said.

About 15 minutes later, Taddonio entered the Mobil station located at 372 Middle Country Road and held up the clerk fleeing with about $350, police said.

Iovino and Taddonio fled southbound on Route 112 in Coram, but were stopped by Sixth Precinct Patrol Officer Francesco Saracino who was searching the area in regards to the attempted robbery, police said.

Saracino arrested the suspects at about 6:50 p.m. Cash and a BB gun used during the robberies were recovered, police said.

Taddonio and Iovino were each charged with second degree robbery and second degree attempt robbery.

Taddonio and Iovino were held overnight at the Sixth Precinct and were arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip Sunday. Taddonio was released on $20,000 bond. Iovino was released on $30,000 bond.

SCPD photos: Tony Taddonio (L) and Michael Iovino