By:Jerry Burke
"It appears that two people were waiting for them to get home," said Fifth Squad Det. Robert Goetchius. "They definitely knew who they were after."
Goetchius said that McClain had just stepped out of his car at 2:45 a.m. when a man, whom McClain described as an African-American male, possibly in his 20s, standing about 6 feet 4, weighing about 220 pounds wearing dark clothing and a dark hat, pressed a knife against McClain's back and demanded money.
Police say the assailant told McClain not to scream or he would kill his wife. At that, McClain turned around and began to struggle with the robber. During the tussle, McClain's left middle finger was cut, causing him to drop the manila envelope that contained the thousands of dollars in cash and checks donated to McClain at the party celebrating his 14 years of service at the United House of Prayer for All People in Jamaica.
Police say the thief picked up the envelope and fled north and west toward Blackstone Avenue. "There was a gray car with Florida tags running and a driver waiting for the suspect down the block," said Goetchius. "The door was opened for him, and then they sped west." The neighborhood is just south of Belmont Park and across Hempstead Turnpike.
"When we got to the home," said Goetchius, "the reverend and his wife were fine. His injury was slight and was treated at the scene."
Police believe the getaway car may have been an Acura or an Altima. They are also investigating the possibility that the suspects may have been at the party or knew someone who had attended. "We have already been to the church asking for information," said Goetchius.
Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to call Nassau County Crime stoppers at (800) 244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.
