Suspect arrested in stabbing, robbery at Manhattan dry cleaner
KIPS BAY, Manhattan (WABC) -- A Manhattan man is facing attempted murder charges after an attack on a 78-year-old dry cleaner owner.
He was just released from the hospital and Eyewitness News spoke with him about that terrifying robbery and the suspect police now have behind bars.
Seven days a week, 12 hours a day, Apel takes great pride in the intricate work he's done for decades at his Kips Bay Tailoring Shop on E. 27th St.
It's work that's allowed him to provide for his family and meet a variety of people.
"I have to work for my living," Apel said.
But on Monday afternoon, Apel came face to face with 53-year-old John Franklyn, a career criminal out on parole who police say was looking for some quick cash.
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"He has the knife he put the knife to my chest my face he hit me several times," Apel said.
Apel says Franklyn stabbed him multiple times in the chest as he desperately fought back, but Franklyn still got away with $80 bucks.
The 78-year-old was left with several stab wounds, a fractured skull, and a punctured lung for a small amount that nearly cost Apel his life.
"For $80? Who does that? I mean for any money, it's like attempted murder," said Diana Tamagoglu, the victim's daughter.
Police arrested Franklyn Wednesday night and charged him with attempted murder, robbery, and assault.
He was actually just released from prison last month after serving 12 years for a burglary on Staten Island in 2003.
Franklyn was also has two previous convictions for robbery in 1987 and assault in 1984.
