Cops probe two New Cassel street robberies

A group of four men hit a man, 38, on the head with a bat Wednesday at about 2:10 a.m. as he walked on Prospect Avenue near Brooklyn Avenue. Once the man was on the ground, the group began to punch and kick him, police said.

They then took his wallet, which had an unspecified amount of cash, and some personal papers, police said.

On Tuesday, at about 10:45 p.m., a group of five men knocked a 26-year-old man off his bicycle on Broadway. The group beat the man in pretty much the same manner as the first victim and also took his wallet and personal papers, police said.

Police said both victims were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment but did not provide details on their injuries.

In both assaults, the men fled on foot in an unknown direction, police said.

Anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers, 800-244-8477. All calls will be kept confidential.