When asked about the amount of cash taken, Giambrone declined to comment, but added that although robberies have spiked in the past month, the pattern is similar to those that he has seen in past years. “I find it to be cyclical,” he said.

Both Baron and Ramirez were arraigned on Jan. 30 at the First District Court in Hempstead.

Prosecutors requested a bail status of remand for both defendants. Judge Watson set bail at $2 million for Ramirez and $1.5 million for Baron.

Assistant District Attorney Lee Genser is prosecuting the case. Baron's attorney, Matthew Tuohy, was not available for comment at press time Thursday. Ramirez is being represented by the Legal Aid Society, which does not comment on cases.

Ramirez and Baron are due to appear in Part 9L of District Court in Mineola on Feb. 3.