The driver of a car that killed a three-month old baby and seriously injured the baby’s mother and sister was denied early release from prison by the New York State Department of Corrections.
Albert Gomez ran over and killed the infant during a road rage while the family was walking along the shoulder of Route 59 in Monsey on June 26, 2017.
According to court documents, Gomez became angry at a taxi that cut him off and drove alongside the taxi and onto the shoulder of Route 59, striking the family that was walking along the roadway. The three-month infant’s death sparked a call from local politicians to install sidewalks along dangerous roadways to prevent pedestrians from being struck by cars and improve overall safety.
Gomez received a very lenient sentence of 1 1/3–4 years in prison under a plea deal with the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office. Based upon the initial denial of parole, Gomez will likely serve another 20 months in prison. He’s eligible for release on February 20, 2020.
Anyone that has lived in Rockland County or the Hudson Valley region will recall the truly tragic case where Patricia Nigro was murdered by her boyfriend William T. Groesbeck in her home in Sloatsburg. Groesbeck then turned the gun on himself, committing suicide in October 2015. While murder/suicide cases usually don’t lead to a lawsuit, an appeals court in Brooklyn ruled that the Town of Ramapo and Ramapo Police Department may be held liable based upon the events that led up to the crime.
According to Patricia Nigro’s estate representatives, Nigro contacted the Town of Ramapo Police Department after Groesbeck physically assaulted her. The complaint alleged that members of the department responded to the couple’s Sloatsburg residence, where Nigro told the police that Groesbeck had assaulted her and that she feared for her life. Nigro allegedly notified the responding police officers that Groesbeck possessed a handgun. The complaint alleged that the officers confiscated Groesbeck’s handgun but did not arrest him.
The complaint alleged that the Police Department later learned that Groesbeck had been a police officer in New Jersey and they “illegally and irresponsibly returned” the handgun to Groesbeck even though he could not produce, and in fact did not have a license to possess the handgun in the State of New York. The complaint further alleged that on October 21, 2015, Groesbeck viciously beat Nigro, causing skull fractures and other internal injuries. Groesbeck then shot and killed Nigro with the same handgun that had been returned to him by the police department. After murdering Nigro, Groesbeck took his own life.
Patricia Nigro’s estate claimed that the Town, by virtue of the actions of the Town Police Department, was negligent in returning the handgun to Groesbeck. The complaint alleged that the Town Police Department did not have the legal authority to return the handgun to Groesbeck since he was not licensed to possess it in the State of New York. The complaint further alleged that Nigro had relied upon the fact that the department would comply with existing law.
The Town of Ramapo tried to dismiss the complaint. The Town argued that it did not owe Nigro a duty of care since there was no special relationship between her and the Town Police Department. The Town further contended that Groesbeck’s criminal acts were a superseding cause of Nigro’s death. Finally, the Town argued that the doctrine of governmental immunity shielded it from liability for the discretionary actions alleged in the complaint.
Initially, the Rockland County Supreme Court denied the Town’s motion. The Town appealed to the Appellate Division, Second Department in Brooklyn. On appeal, Ramapo argued that the Rockland Court did not consider the Town’s legal arguments and made an incorrect ruling. However, the appeals court held that a jury could reasonably conclude that Groesbeck’s use of the allegedly illegal handgun to harm Nigro was a foreseeable consequence of the situation created by the Town’s negligence. Accepting the facts alleged in the complaint as true, a reasonable jury could infer that the Town Police Department took possession of the handgun in order to protect Nigro against just such a risk of harm.
Furthermore, the evidence submitted by the Town in support of its motion failed to conclusively demonstrate, as a matter of law, that the Town’s alleged negligence was not a proximate cause of Nigro’s death.
While the appeals court did not grant the Town’s appeal and dismiss the lawsuit, it did hold that the Town’s claims were affirmative defenses, which a jury should consider and refused to dismiss the claims without a trial.
A Rockland County women was arrested last Saturday after going on a racist diatribe while riding a transport of Rockland bus. The unidentified woman made several derogatory remarks about immigrants and appeared to be intoxicated according to a fellow passenger. The woman at one point screamed, “Get the **** out of my country” before being removed from the bus and taken into police custody.
Sheriff’s deputies and Orangetown Police responded to the incident near Route 340 after the bus driver called dispatch and requested law enforcement assistance.
The entire incident was recorded and posted to several media outlets by another passenger, who is now in contact with the Rockland County Commission on Human Rights.
The video of the event quickly went viral and even caught the attention of County Executive Ed Day, who described the tirade as “outlandish and degrading.”
“I applaud the bus driver, passengers and responding law enforcement for handing this situation as calmly as they did,” Day said. “Rockland County will not tolerate these types of divisions any longer. We all have much more in common than any superficial differences that appear to divide us.”
On July 4th, 2018 at approximately 11:00 am the Spring Valley Police responded to 16 North Main Street for a report of a possible stabbing. Upon arrival police immediately found a male victim with multiple stab wounds to his torso. The investigation revealed that the incident may have actually taken place around the corner on East Church Street during a dispute with another man and then the victim made his way to 16 North Main Street after being stabbed.
The investigation is ongoing and the Spring Valley Police Department asks that anyone with information to please call (845) 356-7400. The information will be held in the strictest confidence.
Orangetown July 30th – Orangetown Police arrested Vincent Berlingeri of S. Franklin Street in Nyack, who was then charged with Burglary 2nd and Grand Larceny on two incidents. On Saturday July 28th, 2018, between 7:15pm and 8:35pm it is alleged that Mr. Berlingeri entered an apartment at 50 S. Franklin Street through a window. The tenant returned home while Mr. Berlingeri was inside the apartment, and Mr. Berlingeri then fled through the front door, leaving the apartment ransacked and in disarray. At the time of the police report, the tenant was unsure if anything had been taken. On Monday July 30th, 2018 at approximately 5pm, Mr. Berlingeri entered IRINIRI 98 Main St in Nyack. He allegedly opened a glass case, removed a Herkimer Diamond, and fled the store. The diamond is valued at thirteen hundred dollars. Orangetown patrols canvassed the area and observed Mr. Berlingeri in the parking lot of Nyack Plaza, where he was arrested. He was then transferred to Orangetown Headquarters and processed. Mr. Berlingeri was arraigned in Nyack Justice Court and remanded to the Rockland County Jail.
Ramapo
July 30th – At approximately 2:10pm, an Ramapo PD officer on patrol on Route 59 in Hillburn observed a vehicle being operated with children not properly secured by a safety device. The officer conducted a traffic stop and began to observe signs that the operator was intoxicated. His ongoing investigation revealed his suspicions to be correct and the operator was placed under arrest. The 3 children in the vehicle were all under the age of 16. The operator, a 60 year old male from Washington D.C., was charged with Aggravated DWI (BAC greater than .18%), Aggravated DWI (Leandra’s Law), Driving While Intoxicated, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child (3 counts). He was arraigned and $15,000 bail was set. He was transported to Rockland County Jail pending future court appearance and release on bail.
July 29th – Just after 1:00am, Ramapo PD was notified of a burglary at a residence on Orange Turnpike in The Village of Sloatsburg, which was interrupted by the homeowner. The suspect fled the scene prior to the police notification. The victim was slightly injured as she attempted to stop the male suspect from leaving with proceeds. She was treated at the scene by Rockland Paramedics and Sloatsburg EMS; injuries were minor and did not require hospitalization. The Ramapo PD Investigations Division responded to the scene and requested Rockland County Sheriff’s B.C.I. to assist with evidence processing. Ramapo detectives followed up this case throughout the day, and earlier this evening arrested a 27 year old male from Sloatsburg, NY for Burglary 2nd Degree, Robbery 3rd Degree, Grand Larceny 4th Degree, and Petit Larceny, in connection with this incident. The subject was processed at Ramapo Police Headquarters and is being held for arraignment.
July 29th – Shortly after midnight, the Ramapo Police Department was informed of a possible shooting victim being treated at Good Samaritan Hospital Emergency Department. Responding officers determined that the incident occurred on Hidden Valley Drive in the Village of Pomona, near where the injured person was attending a house party. The victim, a 26 year old male, suffered a non-life threatening injury. He was treated and released from the hospital. Ramapo police detectives are presently investigating the circumstances of this incident, and are being assisted by Rockland County Sheriff’s B.C.I. for evidence processing. This is currently an open investigation, and no further details are available.
Clarkstown
Seeking information on Person of Interest – The Clarkstown Police Department is attempting to identify the pictured male in reference to unlawful surveillance at Target, located at the Palisades Center Mall in West Nyack. On July 17, 2018 a female victim went into the changing room to try on clothing when the pictured male hispanic person of interest allegedly held a cell phone under the changing room door. The female victim believed that the cell phone was video recording her at the time. The female victim immediately confronted the male, who then fled Target into the mall. The pictures of the person of interest were obtained by video surveillance systems within the mall.
Anyone who has any information on the person of interest please contact Det. Michael Novotny at (845) 639-5864 or submit an anonymous tip via Tip411. Download the “RocklandCo DA” Tip411 App in the App Store or Google Play.
August 24 – A 44-year-old victim from West Nyack called the Clarkstown Police to report a fraudulent deposit of a check from his TD Bank account. The victim stated that one morning he dropped an envelope containing a check to pay Sears in the drop box in the West Nyack Village Square. The victim became aware that the check was not cashed by Sears and that it was fraudulently deposited at an ATM in Paterson, NJ.
It was determined that the West Nyack Post Office Postmaster had previously reported that an unknown suspect had broken into the drop box at both the West Nyack Village Square and the West Nyack Post Office at the same time the victim said he mailed his Sears bill. The victim stated that he is in contact with TD Bank who have opened up an investigation. The Postal Inspector Office currently has its own investigation regarding the stolen mail from the drop boxes in West Nyack. This kind of mailbox theft has been reported in many communities in the tri-state area.
Stony Point
On August 24 at approximately 11 a.m., defendant Michael Garabo was arrested following an investigation into a complaint that someone was observed spray-painting a railroad trestle that connects Tomkins Avenue to Beach Road, using red paint. When officers arrived the suspect was gone, but their investigation led them to the defendant’s residence a couple of blocks away. During an interview of the defendant, officers observed that he had some red paint on his arm and a can of red spray paint in his vehicle. After initially denying any knowledge of the incident, the defendant ultimately admitted to defacing the trestle. He was arrested on the listed charges, processed and released on an appearance ticket returnable to Stony Point Justice Court on September 20 at 1:30 p.m.
On August 14, the Stony Point Police Department received a complaint from an employee of Shop Rite in Stony Point of larceny at the store. The employee provided the license plate number and the defendant was arrested at his residence with the stolen property. In addition to the stolen property, the defendant was found to be in possession of four decks of heroin. The Defendant was arrested and processed on the charges of Petit Larceny, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the fifth degree and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the seventh degree and is scheduled to appear in Stony Point Justice Court on October 2 at 9 a.m.
Suffern PD
Weekend activity [August 17-19] summary from the Suffern Police Department relayed by Chief Clarke Osborn: Suffern PD responded to a domestic dispute on W. Park Place, determined that the actual dispute took place in Mahwah, and contacted Mahwah PD about the incident. SPD handled several medical related calls and responded to Berkeley Square, Lonergan Dr., Jersey Ave., Bon Aire Circle, E. Maple Ave. and Orange ave. for those incidents and assisted EMS as needed. Officers handled two Lifeline alerts, one on Danbury Ct. and one on Lafayette Ave. and fortunately both were set in error. They checked on the well being of a resident of Interstate St. after being contacted by a family member and fortunately, it turned out alright.
Along with the Suffern Fire Department, SPD responded to two reports of gas leaks, one on Lonergan Dr. and one on Milford Lane which ended up being a faulty furnace that had a leak in it. Officers impounded a vehicle from a driver who was found to be driving without a license, and an officer on patrol on Jersey Ave. located a vehicle with its door wide open in the evening and contacted the owner who had mistakenly forgot to close it. Officers also handled two disputes, one on Wayne Ave. and one on Lafayette Ave., assisted a motorist who ran out of gas on Rt. 202, handled two suspicious incidents where residents found items in front of their homes, one a cooler and one a gym bag which both ended up being left there accidentally.
SUFFERN NARCAN SAVE
On August 24, Suffern PD officers responded to a residence in the Knolls of Ramapough for a report of an unresponsive female who was not breathing. Lt. Andy Loughlin and Sergeants Jim Giannettino and Jose Martinez arrived at the address within one minute of the call, and after assessing the situation found the woman to be unconscious and not breathing. These officers administered NARCAN to the woman and shortly after she started to breathe and her condition greatly improved. Due to the quick response time and knowledge of officers Loughlin, Giannettino and Martinez, this woman literally had her life saved. The Rockland Paramedics and Ramapo Valley Ambulance Corps. arrived shortly after and assisted the officers’ efforts.
Orangetown PD
On August 23, the Orangetown Police reported an increase of calls involving the “grandparent scam.” The grandparent scam involves a suspect calling grandparents and telling them that their grandchild has been in an accident or has been arrested and needs money to settle the case “out of court.” The suspects will then put a child on the phone that is usually crying who quickly ask the grandparent for help before the phone is taken away.
The grandparents are then told not to call anyone, or the deal is off. The grandparents are then instructed to get cash or gift cards to turn over to suspects. OPD encourages all citizens who are in this situation to call their local police department. Do not send cash or gift cards in response to these calls or any similar call that is trying to get cash or personal information over the phone.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.BRONX MAN SENTENCED IN PALISADES PARKWAY GUN, AMMO STOP
Rockland County District Attorney Thomas P. Zugibe this week announced that 37-year-old Alfonso Cortez East 138th Street, Bronx has been sentenced tonine and a half years in state prison with two and a half years post-release supervision for illegal weapon possession charges.
Cortez was convicted on May 18.
On September 19, 2017, at approximately 7:26 a.m., a New York State Trooper observed Cortez violating various New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law violations, including speeding, on the northbound Palisades Interstate Parkway in Orangetown. Following a traffic stop and search of the defendant’s vehicle, the trooper recovered a locked, metal gun safe containing a loaded Smith and Wesson 9mm semi-automatic pistol.
According to the charges, the gun held 15 rounds in the clip and one round in the chamber. Also recovered from Cortez’ truck was a gun cleaning kit and two, loaded Smith and Wesson 9mmOne magazine contained 15 (9mm) rounds and the second magazine contained 16 (9mm) rounds – both considered large-capacity ammunition feeding devices.
The gun was later test-fired by investigators.
District Attorney Zugibe said, “The defendant possessed a loaded deadly weapon, including a small stockpile of ammunition, posing a potential threat to public safety. Under the circumstances, these state prison sentences are more than warranted.”
Supervising Assistant District Attorney Nabeela McLeod prosecuted the case.
GUILTY PLEA IN STRING OF VIOLENT ROCKLAND COUNTY TAXI CAB ASSAULTS, ROBBERIESImage may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Rockland County District Attorney Thomas P. Zugibe this week announced that 23-year-old Demond Vaughan of Main Street, Spring Valley pled guilty to one count of robbery in the first degree and one count of criminal possession of a forged instrument in the first degree – both felonies – relating to a string of violent knifepoint attacks and robberies of local taxi cab drivers.
“The defendant has admitted to committing a series of serious felonies – including knifepoint assaults on local cab drivers – during a four-week armed robbery spree,” District Attorney Zugibe said. “Simply put, he terrorized our local taxi industry. He has proven himself to be a menace to others and deserves many years in prison.”
From October 30, 2017 to November 20, 2017, Zugibe said Vaughan summoned taxi cabs on at least seven separate occasions. In one incident, on October 31, 2017, after summoning a cab in the Village of Spring Valley, the defendant and another individual placed a knife to the driver’s neck and directed the victim to hand over his cash to the defendant. During another incident, on November 11, 2017, following a cab ride in Spring Valley, the defendant physically attacked the driver as he counted change. Vaughan ultimately forcibly stole $100 from the victim’s hand and fled. On November 17, 2017, the defendant and another individual chased and violently assaulted a taxi driver in Spring Valley, ultimately stealing $100 from the victim.
On October 30, 2017, following a cab ride through Spring Valley, Vaughan provided a counterfeit $100 bill to pay for the $35 fare, Zugibe said. Vaughan was arrested following investigations by the Spring Valley Police Department, the Town of Ramapo Police Department and the Town of Haverstraw Police Department. The defendant was remanded following the guilty plea.
Sentencing will be on November 27, 2018. He faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in state prison and five years post release supervision. In addition, orders of protections will be issued for each the victims and the defendant will be required to pay restitution. Additionally, the defendant admitted to a violation of probation arising out of the conviction in this case. Vaughan was on felony probation for Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree at the time he committed the string of assaults and robberies. Supervising Assistant District Attorney Nabeela McLeod prosecuted the case.
The criminal sex charges against a Nyack chiropractor against a minor female patient continue to meander through the Village of South Nyack Justice Court. Kristina Wodicka was arrested over a year ago and charged with sexual abuse in the first degree, a class D felony. However, since her arrest, the felony charges levied against Wodicka have been reduced to only misdemeanor charges. However, if convicted, Wodicka still faces up to one year in county jail and might have to register as a sex offender.
There have been several delays in the case, which include the recusal of the South Nyack Village Justice Dennis Lynch and motion practice submitted by the defendant’s attorney. The case is currently being presided over by Acting Justice Thomas Mascola. The most recent delay was due to Wodicka hiring a new attorney to represent her in the proceedings. Wodicka was previously represented by Beth Finkelstein, Esq. and now is represented by Mahmoud Rabah, a Queens-based attorney. Calls to Mr. Rabah’s office for comment were not returned.
According to papers filed with South Nyack Justice Court, a detective has accused Wodicka of sexual conduct against the minor female patient over a period of several months. The alleged conduct includes putting her hands underneath the minor’s shirt, touching her breasts and inserting fingers into her vagina. According to papers filed by in court, Wodicka allegedly met with a detective and, after being informed of her Miranda warnings, voluntarily stated that she diagnosed the minor with a hiatal hernia and placed her hands on pressure points on her upper chest, below her breasts, stomach and around her hips. Wodicka also allegedly stated that she studied chiropractic medicine in Oregon where she practiced giving breast and vaginal exams. Wodicka also allegedly informed the detective that she might have crossed “some boundaries” while treating the minor patient.
According to the South Nyack Detective, Wodicka allegedly told the minor “don’t tell [your] mom, she wouldn’t understand the treatment we are doing.” Wodicka also allegedly claimed that the minor had past lives haunting her and Wodicka had to scare them off. After allegedly touching the victim, Wodicka told the minor “they are gone.”
Wodicka has since moved from her Nyack residence as notices from the court have been returned as undeliverable. She is next due in court on November 5, 2018.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Rockland County District Attorney Thomas P. Zugibe today announced that Stanley Juin (DOB 12/02/85) of 260 North Main Street, Spring Valley, New York was sentenced to eight years in state prison on his conviction after a jury trial of:
* Four counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, class “B” Felonies
* Four counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, class “B” Felonies
“This investigation is another example of prosecutors and police working together to reduce drug dealing that too often plagues our community,” said District Attorney Zugibe. “The lengthy prison sentence underscores our commitment to improve the quality of life for the residents of Orangetown – and all of Rockland County.”
On at least four occasions between June 1, 2017 and June 29, 2017, Juin sold various amounts of cocaine to police informants at the Palisades Center in West Nyack and on South Mill Street in Nyack.
The case was investigated by members of the Rockland County Drug Task Force and the Orangetown Police Department.
Rockland County Court Judge David Zuckerman presided over the trial, which ended on June 28, 2018.
The eight-year prison term will be served concurrently with an unrelated sentence for the crime of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument in the Second Degree, a class “E” Felony.
The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Mike Dugandzic and Assistant District Attorney Ryan Sweeney.
On October 19, 2018, State Police Haverstraw arrested Robert Morrison, age 25, of Pearl River, NY for DWI. He was traveling in the town of Rockland when he was stopped for a vehicle and traffic law violation. Investigation revealed that he was impaired by alcohol and was subsequently arrested.
On October 20, 2018, State Police Haverstraw arrested Paul Denoyelles, age 43, of Newburgh, NY for DWI. He was traveling on the Palisades Interstate Parkway in the town of Clarkstown when he was stopped for a vehicle and traffic law violation. Investigation revealed that he was impaired by alcohol and was subsequently arrested.
On October 20, 2018, State Police Haverstraw arrested Bobby Thariath, age 40, of Nanuet, NY for DWI. He was traveling on State Route 304 in the town of Clarkstown when he was stopped for a vehicle and traffic law violation. Investigation revealed that he was impaired by alcohol and was subsequently arrested.
On October 21, 2018, State Police Haverstraw arrested Steven Runko, age 24, of New Hampton, NY for DWI. He was traveling on the Palisades Interstate Parkway in the town of Orangetown when he was stopped for a vehicle and traffic law violation. Investigation revealed that he was impaired by alcohol and was subsequently arrested.
A New York City Police Sergeant is suing the Town of Ramapo and one of its officers claiming false arrest, malicious prosecution and violation of federal civil rights in connection with an arrest made in July 29, 2016.
The Plaintiff, Joel Silverman, a Sergeant stationed out of the 26th precinct Detective Squad in upper Manhattan, claims that he was arrested by Ramapo Police Officer Thomas Byrnes after his estranged wife made false accusations to the police. According to documents filed in Rockland County Supreme Court, Sergeant Silverman informed Ramapo Police Officer Byrnes that he and his wife were going through a divorce and she falsified the allegations in a form of retaliation for filing the divorce action. Upon his arrest, Silverman allegedly informed Officer Byrnes that at the time, it was claimed he committed the crimes; he was on duty and working at the 26th precinct. While in custody, Sergeant Silverman requested the Ramapo Police to call the 26th precinct to verify his alibi; however, no calls were made.
Rather, Sergeant Silverman was given a court appearance date and he was prosecuted for the crimes alleged to have occurred by the District Attorney’s office. The prosecution lasted for over one year when the charges against him were dismissed in open court on October 27, 2017. Sergeant Silverman alleges that in the approximately 15 months between his arrest and dismissal of the charges, no one bothered to confirm whether he was actually working, and thus, could not have committed the acts alleged by his estranged wife.
The lawsuit seeks monetary damages for the false arrest, malicious prosecution, negligence and violations of federal civil rights based upon the actions of Officer Byrnes and the Ramapo Police Department. The Town of Ramapo has not yet frilled an answer to the lawsuit, but did demand that the case be removed to Federal District Court based upon the claims of civil rights violations. Calls to Sergeant Silverman’s attorney Joseph Maria, Esq. for comment were not returned.
Rockland County District Attorney Thomas P. Zugibe this week announced that Aleksandr Fridman (DOB 09/06/1956) of 45 Omni Court, New City, New York has been arrested by members of the Joint Public Corruption Task Force and charged with:
*One count of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, a class “D” Felony
*43 counts of Falsifying Business Records in the First Degree, class “E” Felonies
District Attorney Zugibe said, “”This defendant has been charged with cheating Spring Valley taxpayers of several thousand dollars by fraudulently submitting payroll records. His actions are especially egregious because of his law enforcement positions in both Spring Valley and Ramapo.”
Fridman worked as a full-time parking attendant, employed by the Village of Spring Valley. Unbeknownst to village officials, the defendant was also employed as a court officer by the Town of Ramapo. According to the charges, on 43 separate occasions in 2018, the defendant was paid simultaneously to work for the Village of Spring Valley and the Town of Ramapo.
The investigation revealed Fridman would sign-in to work in Spring Valley, then drive to Ramapo to work as a court officer, allegedly being compensated by both municipalities simultaneously. It is alleged that the defendant would return to Spring Valley at the end of the work day and sign out.
District Attorney Zugibe said Fridman “double-dipped” on 43 days in 2018, resulting in a theft from the Village of Spring Valley of over $4,900. The arrest was the culmination of an investigation by the Public Corruption Task Force.
He was arraigned in Clarkstown Justice Court and scheduled to appear again on December 10. Executive Assistant District Attorney Richard Kennison Moran, Bureau Chief of the Public Corruption Task Force for the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office, is prosecuting the case.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.The Clarkstown Police Detective Bureau arrested a 24-year-old male from Delaware for the shooting death of 37-year-old Youbens Joseph stemming from a dispute that occurred at Youbs Auto Sales in West Nyack on Saturday.
Eric Hue Ross, Jr., 24, of Wilmington, DE, was taken into custody at a residence in Quakertown, PA. The Clarkstown Detective Bureau, with the assistance of the Clarkstown Police Street Crimes Unit, U.S. Marshall’s Service, Pennsylvania State Police, New York City Police Department Intelligence Bureau and the Quakertown Police Department, apprehended Ross after an exhaustive five day investigation.
The Clarkstown Police Department will hold a press conference at police headquarters, 20 Maple Ave New City, NY on Thursday at 11 a.m. to provide a more detailed explanation of the investigation.
Youbens of Middletown, NY had been shot a total of three times, suffering major internal damage.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Rockland County District Attorney Thomas P. Zugibe today announced that Dr. Hiten Lakhani (DOB 03/10/68) of 16 Pepperidge Drive, New City, New York has been convicted after a jury trial of:
One count of Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree, a class “A” Misdemeanor
District Attorney Zugibe said, “As a doctor, the defendant was keenly aware of how harmful his actions would be to his young victim. This sexual predator now has the possibility of going to jail as a result of his depraved behavior.”
In August 2012, Lakhani engaged in sexual contact with a child less than 14 years old that was known to him.
The defendant is an ophthalmologist with offices at 445 Route 304, Bardonia, New York.
Lakhani faces a maximum of one year in local jail when he appears in court for sentencing on April 15, 2019.
Based upon his conviction, the defendant will be required to register under the Sex Offender Registration Act (Megan’s Law).
This case was prosecuted by Stefanie Schera of the Special Victims’ Unit of the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.FROM CPD
On December 8, 2018 at 1:20 p.m., the Clarkstown Police Department responded to Nyack Hospital for a stabbing victim who had walked into the emergency room. Responding patrol officers interviewed the male victim, who was accompanied by a female friend. Both parties were not forthcoming with the circumstances of the incident that resulted in the male being stabbed.
The investigation revealed the car that was driven by the female friend contained felony weight of cocaine. The car was registered to the female. Both parties were taken into custody for the possession of controlled substance.
The female was identified as Denise Christensen, 53, of Pearl River and the male was identified as Carl Mason, 29, of Sparkill. Christensen was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance fourth (felony), criminal possession of a controlled substance cocaine fifth (felony) and criminal possession of a controlled substance seventh (misdemeanor). Mason was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance third (felony) and criminal possession of a controlled substance seventh (misdemeanor).
Christensen was transported to police headquarters for processing and Mason remained in Nyack Hospital in protective custody. Christensen was arraigned at Clarkstown Justice Court. Bail was set at $2,000. She was transported to Rockland County Jail and will return to court on December 12, 2018 at 1:30 p.m.
Jose Negron, age 27, of Stony Point, NY, was arrested for DWI, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana, Criminal Contempt (Violation of Order or Protection), and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation. The defendant was observed by a detective assigned to a STOP DWI detail speeding in a vehicle and crossing the double yellow line on West Main St in Stony Point. The defendant drove into a driveway and attempted to walk away from the detective. He was detained and refused to submit to any field sobriety tests. He was arrested for DWI based on the detective’s investigation and was found to possess over 20 grams of marijuana. He was also in violation of a Stay Away Order of Protection for being at the location he was stopped. He was processed and arraigned before the Stony Point Magistrate and was released on $500 bail and is due back in court January 10.
CPCS
James, R. Rose, age 27, of North Liberty Drive, Stony Point NY, was arrested for CPCS 7th (Criminal Possession Controlled Substance), Class A Misd. The defendant was observed by a Patrol Officer attempting to inject heroin in his arm on a public bench near Knight’s Corner off Tomkins Ave., Stony Point. Upon further investigation, 23 baggies of heroin were recovered. The Defendant was placed under arrest for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th. He was processed at Stony Point Police Department and released with an Appearance Ticket to appear in Stony Point Justice Court on March 21, 2019 at 1:30 p.m.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.On January 16, 2019, the Spring Valley Police Department, with the assistance of the US Marshalls service, arrested Waldemar Gonzalez, age 41, from Co-op City in the Bronx. An investigation revealed that Mr. Gonzalez sent several indecent photographs and videos of himself to a 14-year-old victim, as well as offerred to met the victim for sexual purposes.
Mr. Gonzalez was charged with eight felont counts of disseminating indecent material to minors in the first degree and was arraigned in Spring Valley Justice Court before the Honorable Judge Desir. He was held on $50,000 bail and transported to the Rockland County Jail.
UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA
Kayla Taylor, age 18, of Haverstraw NY, was arrested on January 25, 2019 for criminal possession of marijuana in the fourth degree, and Rolando Garcia, age 24, of Haverstraw, NY, was arrested for unlawful possession of marijuana. An officer responded to Budget Motor Inn for an activation of a fire alarm in room 118. Upon the Officer’s arrival on scene, two inhabitants were exiting room 118 and proceeding into their vehicle. There was a strong odor of Marihuana coming from the vacated room and in the subject’s vehicle, along with Marihuana in plain view in one of the subject’s hand. Subsequent investigation, 58 grams of Marihuana were found in the subject’s vehicle. Both of the Defendant’s were arrested. One was charged with Criminal Possession of Marihuana 4th, and the other was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marihuana. Both were released with appearance tickets returnable to Stony Point Justice Court on February 21, 2019.
POSSESSION OF A FORGED INSTRUMENT & AUO
Brian Stanislas, age 31, of Spring Valley, NY, was arrested for possession of a forged instrument in the first degree and aggravated unlicensed operation in the third degree. On January 26, 2019, while on patrol an Officer observed the Defendant exiting the Budget Motor Inn operating a vehicle with excessive tints, driver’s view obstructed and use of a portable electronic device. After a traffic stop of the vehicle on South Liberty Drive, it was discovered that the driver of the vehicle’s license was suspended. The Defendant was arrested for Aggravated Unlicensed Operator 3rd. Upon arrest, the Defendant was found to possess two 100 dollar bills which were counterfeit, which led to the Defendant also being charged with Possession of a Forged Instrument 1st. The Defendant was processed and arraigned. He was released after posting $1,000 bail and given a court date of February 7, 2019, at 1:30 p.m.
CRIMINAL POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE
Assunta Guglielmo, age 47, of Pelham, NY, was arrested on January 27, 2019 on an executed bench warrant for aggravated unlicensed operation in the third degree and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, as well as other vehicle and traffic law charges. On January 27, 2019, the defendant was turned over by New York State Police on an active Bench Warrant out of Stony Point Justice Court for Aggravated Unlicensed Operator 3rd, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th, and other Vehicle and Traffic Law violations. The Defendant was arraigned, released on $250 bail, and issued an appearance ticket returnable to Stony Point Justice Court on February 5, 2019.
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF, CRIMINAL POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA & HARASSMENT
Paul W. Bennet, age 21, of Tomkins Cove, NY, was arrested on January 22, 2019 at 9:47 p.m. for the charges for criminal mischief in the fourth degree (x2), criminal possession of marijuana in the fifth degree, and harassment in the second degree. Officers responded to a home on Walter Drive for a report of a disorderly subject. Investigation found that the Defendant got into an altercation with a female, during which the Defendant damaged property belonging to the victim and threw the victim to the ground. The Defendant was also found to be in possession of approximately 45 grams of Marihuana. The Defendant was placed under arrest and charged with two counts of Criminal Mischief 4th, Criminal Possession Marihuana 5th, and Harassment 2nd. He was released on his own recognizance with a return date to appear in Stony Point Justice Court on February 19, 2019, at 1:30 p.m.
Rockland County Acting District Attorney Kevin Gillette on Wednesday announced the indictment of Jason Mendez (DOB 02/10/84) of 91 Toleman Road, Washingtonville, New York was arraigned on an indictment charging him with:
One count of Murder in the Second Degree, a class “A” Felony
Seven counts of Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, a class “B” Violent Felony
District Attorney Gilleece said, “This is a horrifying case of a total stranger running down a defenseless family, leaving the mother dead. His actions should result in him spending the rest of his life in prison.”
On February 20, 2019, at approximately 1:50 p.m.,Mendez intentionally drove his vehicle, a 2013 Infinity with Texas license plates, across the parking lot of a 7-11 convenience store on Central Highway in Garnerville.
According to the charges, the defendant crashed the vehicle into a family of eight people, who had been standing on the sidewalk in front of the store.
The family included children ranging in age from 11 months to 10 years. The mother, Melissa Castillo, died as a result of the injuries she sustained when hit by the Mendez’ vehicle.
The father and six children were treated for injuries and have since recovered.
The defendant was stopped in the parking lot by officers from the Haverstraw Police Department. When he exited his car, he allegedly pointed a box cutter at the officer and refused to drop the weapon. Mendez was the ultimately tasered and placed under arrest.
After an investigation by the Town of Haverstraw Police Department, the defendant was arrested and charged.
He was arraigned before the Honorable John Grant of the Town of Haverstraw Justice Court and remanded pending future court appearances.
Mendez faces a maximum sentence of twenty-five years to life in state prison.
Executive Assistant District Attorney Stephen Moore is prosecuting the case.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.On February 20, 2019, the Spring Valley Police Department received a report of sexual assault against a child. The incident was investigated and it was found from August 2018 to February 20, 2019, a juvenile was the victim of numerous sexual assaults from a single offender.
The investigation resulted in the arrest of Blair Betton, age 42, of Spring Valley, NY. He was charged with predatory sexual assault against a child, as well as a course of sexual conduct against a child in the first degree, both felonies.
The Spring Valley Police Department asks anyone with any similar incidents please contact Detective Suarez at 845-356-7400.