Skid Row Espresso

Fear and Latte in the West Village: ‘Vagrants’ Assault Think Coffee Customers

Think Coffee in the East Village
Think Coffee in the East Village Photo: Melissa Hom

The general manager of Think Coffee in the West Village says several recent episodes of aggression between the shop’s management and homeless people have taken place at its 73 Eighth Avenue store, DNAinfo reports. “The homeless people themselves and customers have left in ambulances,” says Matt Fury. “We have literally called [911] a dozen times over the course of 24 hours.” While police issue summonses to homeless people for panhandling and public urination near the heavily trafficked intersection at 14th Street, the high-end coffee shop is experiencing an increasing number of confrontations. Whenever customers report harassment, says Fury, the “vagrant” will “either verbally or physically attack the customer who complained” as soon as management is out of sight. The shop has since shortened its opening hours in order to protect customers and employees. [DNAinfo, Related]

Fear and Latte in the West Village: ‘Vagrants’ Assault Think Coffee