Authorities say attack happened after 6:25 p.m. at the Broadway-Lafayette Street station.
They say an 11-year-old boy and a 16-year-old boy were selling candy when the 52-year-old man approached them and attempted to rob them.
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The boys were walking along the platform when the man followed them and took the 16-year old's cell phone.
The 16-year-old was able to get the cellphone back but police say the man punched the 11-year-old in the face and threw the cellphone to the ground.
The 11-year-old was taken to Bellevue Hospital with minor injuries.
The suspect was taken into custody.
No charges been filed so far.
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