The New York Police Department has been hard at work investigating a horrific melee that occurred on 42nd St. near Eight Avenue on February 22nd that left a 17-year-old seriously injured.
According to police reports, the incident happened directly outside of a Times Square migrant shelter. Around six people have already been arrested, but police are still looking for more than a dozen others who were involved in the attack.
The whole incident started at around 5:30 P.M. on Thursday. The 17-year-old was reportedly attacked by about 23 individuals including some adults and some juveniles. One of the individuals had a broomstick and he used it to beat the 17-year-old repeatedly. Several of the individuals also punched the defenseless teen. At some point, one person allegedly pulled out a knife at some point and began chasing others around before stabbing the 17-year-old.
Investigators believe that so many people attacked the one individual as part of an ongoing dispute between rival gangs. Investigators also believe the teen is a migrant. Currently, he is being treated for a collapsed and punctured lung.
Luckily, nearby traffic cops who were patrolling the area on foot witnessed the incident and ran after the suspect.
Cops released photographs of several of the suspects, but many of them were covering their faces with masks. So far, three 16-year-olds, two 14-year-olds, and 22-year-old Michael Colome have been arrested for participating in the horrible attack. Colome was charged with assault, weapons possession, and gang assault.
He is currently being held at the infamous Rikers Island facility. Colome did not have a criminal record prior to this incident, and he came to the U.S. about three years ago.
How to Defend Yourself Against Violent Criminal Allegations
Violent criminal charges can lead to substantial consequences, including significant jail time. What’s more, if you’re a migrant, then you run the risk of facing deportation if you commit a serious offense. Under the law, you could be at risk of deportation if you commit an aggravated felony. Even worse, you may not be able to reenter into the U.S. legally. Gang activity is considered a felony offense, especially when stabbing, weapons, and other violence are factors. Gang assault is a class B felony that typically results in up to 25 years in prison. Using any type of weapon is also usually considered an aggravating factor.
One important thing to remember while you’re in America, though, is that you do have the right to hire a legal representative to help you defend yourself in court. An attorney will help you fully understand your charges, come up with a defense strategy that suits your situation, and work towards securing a favorable legal outcome in your situation.
Are you in New York? If you’re facing violent criminal allegations and you’re looking for a quality legal team to help you navigate your situation, then we’re ready to help. Schedule a meeting with our team now to discuss your situation in more detail with one of our top criminal defense attorneys.
