The Seventh Squad reports on the arrest of a Wantagh man for an Attempted Robbery that occurred on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 2:30 PM in Merrick.

According to Detectives, Defendant Nicholas Sarnelli, 36, of 3656 Jerusalem Avenue entered L.I. Antiques located at 231 Sunrise Highway and approached a 69-year-old male employee, displaying a handgun and demanding money. After a brief struggle ensued causing various antique items to break, the defendant fled scene in an unknown direction.

After a thorough investigation the defendant was located. After a brief foot pursuit, officers placed the defendant into custody where he became violent and combative while resisting arrest. No injuries were reported.

Defendant Nicholas Sarnelli is charged with Attempted Robbery 1^st Degree, Menacing 2^nd Degree, Criminal Mischief 4^th Degree and Resisting Arrest. He will be arraigned on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at First District Court, 99 Main Street Hempstead.