'Brave' Suffolk Barber Feted For Helping Nab Man Accused Of Catalytic Converter Theft

ROCKY POINT, NY — Rocky Point Barber Shop owner John Can was recently recognized by Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Jane Bonner for his bravery in helping capture a suspect accused of stealing a catalytic converter back in October.

Can, a native of Turkey who served in the military, told News 12 that the suspect came inside of his shop, acting strangely, so he continued to watch his video surveillance and took off after him, engaging him in a struggle. He ended up getting injured, sustaining cuts to his hand, and then grabbed the man's keys out of his car, so that he could not go anywhere, the outlet reported.

"I got him good, Can told the outlet, adding, "I am telling you I gave him to the cops on a silver plate."

Daniel Labbe, 42, of Medford was later found hiding in the preserve by K-9 Section Officer Matthew Dewitt and his partner, Champ, after a three-hour search by multiple units, including the 7th Precinct’s patrol division and a department helicopter, police said.

Bonner thanked Can, saying that police were able to arrest the suspect "and hopefully put an end to this crime in the Rocky Point community."

"John’s action in this case is a perfect example of ‘if you see something, say something,'" she added.

Labbe was taken to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries and evaluation, according to police.

He was charged with fourth-degree grand larceny, second-degree auto stripping, third-degree criminal mischief, as well as possession of burglar’s tools and fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, according to police.

He was indicted on upgraded charges on Nov. 11, online records show.