NYC police officer admits role in armed robbery of northern NJ perfume warehouse

NYC police officer admits role in NJ perfume heist

NEWARK, N.J. — A New York City police officer has pleaded guilty to helping carry out a heist at a northern New Jersey perfume warehouse.

Richard LeBlanca is the second NYPD officer to plead guilty in the Feb. 9 armed robbery at In Style USA Inc. in Carlstadt, near Giants Stadium.

Original estimates put the robbery at $1 million, but the U.S. Attorney’s Office now says the value is about $600,000.

LeBlanca pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of conspiracy to commit armed robbery, which is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

Officer Brian Checo pleaded guilty in March to the same charge. A third officer has been charged in a separate complaint.

Prosecutors allege the robbers flashed badges before tying up 11 people.