A Wantagh man was arrested for attempting to rob an antiques store in Merrick.
On November 12, 2025 at 2:30 p.m., Nicholas Sarnelli, 36, entered L.I. Antiques located at 231 Sunrise Highway and approached a 69-year-old male employee, allegedly 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, Sarnelli was located. After a brief foot pursuit, officers placed him into custody where he became violent and combative while resisting arrest. No injuries were reported.
Police arrested Sarnelli with Attempted Robbery in the First Degree, Menacing in the Second Degree, Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree and Resisting Arrest. He was arraigned on January 17, 2026 at First District Court in Hempstead.