New Hartford, New York – A 23-year-old New Hartford man has been taken into custody following two attempted robberies at local businesses in the Washington Mills area. Police say the incidents occurred on the same evening and involved the display of a weapon, prompting a multi-agency response.
Incident Overview
The New Hartford Police Department confirmed the arrest of Joseph Dimasse, 23, in connection with attempted robberies at a 7-Eleven and a McDonald’s located on Kellogg Road. Authorities say the suspect attempted to steal from employees at both locations before fleeing the scenes.
No injuries were reported during either incident, and employees were not physically harmed.
Timeline of Events
Police say the attempted robberies occurred on Monday evening, when officers received reports of a man entering two separate businesses within a short period of time. At each location, the suspect allegedly displayed a weapon and demanded money from sales associates.
After failing to obtain cash, the individual fled before officers arrived. Investigators later identified a suspect and worked with federal and regional partners to locate him.
Details from Police and Officials
According to police, officers arrested Dimasse on Tuesday morning with assistance from the United States Marshals Service NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force, along with several local law enforcement agencies.
“The arrest was made following an investigation into two attempted robberies involving the display of a weapon,” police said in a statement released through the New Hartford Police Department’s official channels.
As part of the investigation, officers also conducted a search of the suspect’s residence in New Hartford. Police have not released additional details about what, if anything, was recovered during the search.
Charges Filed
Authorities confirmed that Joseph Dimasse faces multiple charges, including:
- Attempted robbery
- Criminal possession of a weapon
- Attempted petit larceny
After being taken into custody, Dimasse was processed at the New Hartford Police Department and then transported to the Oneida County Jail, where he is being held pending arraignment.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Suspect: Joseph Dimasse, age 23
- Location of incidents: 7-Eleven and McDonald’s on Kellogg Road
- Date of incidents: Monday evening
- Arrest made: Tuesday morning
- Agencies involved: New Hartford Police Department, U.S. Marshals Service NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force
- Injuries reported: None
Additional Context on Robbery Investigations
Police note that attempted robberies involving weapons are treated with the same level of urgency as completed robberies due to the serious risk posed to employees and the public. Even when no money is taken, the display of a weapon can lead to felony charges under New York law.
Law enforcement officials encourage businesses to maintain working surveillance systems and remind employees to prioritize personal safety over property during any robbery attempt.
Public Safety Awareness
Authorities are asking residents and business owners in the Washington Mills and New Hartford areas to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately. Police also stress the importance of cooperating with investigations by providing video footage or eyewitness information when requested.
Conclusion
The arrest of Joseph Dimasse brings an early resolution to a concerning pair of incidents that disrupted local businesses and raised safety concerns in Washington Mills. Police say the investigation remains ongoing as the case moves toward arraignment.
If you live or work in the area and witnessed anything related to these incidents, police encourage you to contact local authorities. Share your experiences in the comments below.
