Homeless man accused of trying to kidnap 6-year-old boy in Coney Island

Johnathan Robalino, 36, is accused of trying to kidnap a boy, 6, in Coney Island on July 6, 2025, police said. (Credit: PIX11)

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CONEY ISLAND, Brooklyn (PIX11) — A homeless man is accused of trying to kidnap a 6-year-old boy who was walking with his mother in Coney Island Sunday night, police said.

Johnathan Robalino, 36, was arrested and charged with assault, attempted kidnapping, and failure to exercise control of a minor, according to the NYPD.

Police said the boy was nearly abducted while walking with his mother on a sidewalk near Stillwell and Surf avenues in Coney Island at around 10 p.m.

Robalino allegedly picked up the child and started to flee before eventually throwing him to the ground, authorities said.

The boy was taken to the hospital with pain and bruising, according to authorities.

The suspect was arrested shortly after the incident. Robalino’s arraignment was pending on Monday.

Crime

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