A criminal complaint says the plan was called off because there were too many people near the Bronx store Sunday. It says the two had planned to wear dark-colored robes that one man had obtained from his mother.
Juneal Ali was held without bail after an initial appearance Tuesday in Manhattan federal court. A criminal complaint charged him with conspiracy and attempted robbery.
The complaint says a co-conspirator revealed the plot to police.
Ali's attorney did not immediately respond to a request to comment on his behalf.