Conviction in Soho Chanel Boutique Robbery

Let this be a lesson to us all… crime doesn’t pay, especially when you get caught! When you brag on social media, the authorities are going to find you. And for Eric Spencer, the brazen robber, it now means up to 40 years in prison, as he was convicted by a jury of one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery and one count of Hobbs Act robbery. Let’s not get bogged down in the legalistics – just understand that it’s serious and generally involves force and interstate commerce.

Back on February 2, 2021, the Chanel boutique in Soho (a downtown neighborhood in NYC’s Manhattan) was robbed of an estimated $200,000 worth of handbags. While we, of course, find it fascinating that the criminal specifically targeted handbags – as opposed to Chanel’s ready-to-wear or jewelry – it’s even more surprising that he was able to grab so many bags when the rest of us can barely touch one.

At trial, prosecutors alleged Spencer insinuated he had a gun by reaching into his waistband. Security guards at the store then backed down, and Spencer and his three accomplices departed with the handbags. 

But the story doesn’t end there as Spencer bragged on social media that he had scored enough bags to open a small boutique. Additionally he sent text messages confirming his actions. At trial, a jury returned a verdict convicting him. Sentencing is now scheduled for June 2022.

In the meantime, we hope future robberies will be deterred with everyone safe from harm. And, that there are some bags left for the rest of us. 

Read more: 

Man convicted of Chanel robbery in SoHo facing 40 years behind bars

‘Could Open Small Boutique’: NY Man Guilty of Swiping $200K+ in Chanel Bags From Store

All Photos courtesy:
Accused SoHo Chanel robber boasted he could ‘open a small boutique’