Sunday, December 13th, 2009

After Richard Grausman, a notable chef, culinary educator, and Upper West Sider, left the keys to his Lexus in the ignition on West 81st Street on December 3rd, two men walked by and took advantage of the opportunity, stealing the car, according to Gothamist.  Three days later, Grausman got a call from a man claiming that his friend had sold him the car for $3,000.  The man on the phone was simply interested in selling the car back to Grausman for the same price.  The caller’s plans were foiled, however, when the car was towed overnight.  Rather than cutting his losses, the man decided it would be a good idea to come to Grausman’s Upper West Side apartment to return the car keys.  When he arrived, he was first searched (when police found cocaine residue) and then arrested for criminal possession of stolen property and coercion.  Jesus Muñoz, 38, and his alleged accomplice Joseph Cartagena, 21, have been charged in the incident, though Cartagena denies involvement in the coercion plot.  Next time, it might be a good idea not to show up to the victim’s apartment to return the keys.  Better yet, don’t forget your keys when parking your Lexus.

Filed under: News, Upper West Side, Upper West Side Blog