The Fifth Squad reports the arrest of two individuals for a Robbery that occurred on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 8:30 PM in West Hempstead.

According to Detectives, officers responded to a disturbance at La Candela Restaurant located at 205 Hempstead Turnpike. After dining in the restaurant, Defendant Jason Thompson, 45, of 226-69 Union Turnpike, Bayside and Defendant Dana Ardezzone, 47, of 8821 Ransom Street, Queens Village removed various tableware items and concealed them in their to-go bags. After exiting the restaurant, two employees approached the defendants in an attempt to retrieve the items. Defendant Thompson shoved them out of the way and brandished a knife placing them in fear for their lives. The victims immediately called 911. Upon officer’s arrival both defendants were placed under arrest without incident.

Defendant Jason Thompson is charged with Robbery 1st Degree, Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th Degree and Menacing 2nd Degree. Defendant Dana Ardezzone is charged with Robbery 2nd Degree. Both Defendants will be arraigned on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at First District Court 99 Main Street, Hempstead.