Police: Man uses Google Translate to announce robbery of Newark restaurant
Investigators say the suspect tried to rob Mi Rinconcito Ecuatoriano on South Street on Feb. 20.
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Newark police say they are searching for a person who apparently used Google Translate to try to rob a restaurant.
Investigators say the suspect walked into Mi Rinconcito Ecuatoriano on South Street on Feb. 20 and used Google Translate to inform employees that he was robbing the location. They say he tried to steal the cash register before running off.
The owner of the restaurant says the suspect became frustrated and violent before he left.
"A man came to buy a coffee, and he bought a coffee and then he wanted to keep the money. And when [the cashier] told him to take it, he didn't take it and got angry, he threw the coffee at her and then he threw a vase that was on the table at her,” says restaurant owner Maria.
Newark's Ironbound district is known for its Hispanic population. The suspect may have assumed none of the employees spoke English.
"The gentleman does not speak Spanish. He only speaks English," Maria said.
However, she told News 12 the cashier who was there during the attempted robbery did speak English.
"We are left with fear, because…we think it can happen again," Maria said.
The man was last seen wearing all black clothing and a black face mask.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call the 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477).
