FIVE STABBED AT RABBI’S HOME IN MONSEY

By Keith Shikowitz

The past couple of months have seen a multitude of anti–Semitic attacks in Brooklyn, Manhattan and Jersey City.

Monsey can now be added to the list as Saturday night at the home of Rabbi Rottenberg, aka Rabbi Rottenberg’s Shul, an assailant entered the home where Hanukah candle lighting had just taken place and began stabbing people with a machete. Within a few hours Grafton E. Thomas, 37, of Greenwood Lake was arrested in connection with the attack.

At a press conference Sunday the Israeli Ambassador to the United States spoke to the press first in Hebrew and then in English. “What we saw now has to be the last time. That’s what I told your Hebrew colleagues. When I came to this country 3.5 years ago to serve to represent Israel in my darkest nightmares I didn’t expect these were the kinds of tasks I’d have to fulfill. I spent a week in Pittsburgh, which is also my jurisdiction, in October ’18. That is an experience I will not forget until the last day of my life. Just a few weeks ago I was together with Governor Murphy in Jersey City. I saw a small cramped room in which 53 Jewish children were hidden for four hours when the bullets were all over, not knowing what their fate would be. And now here with a machete, trying to kill Jews. This is something, like I said, in my darkest nightmares, I didn’t expect.”

He said he isn’t implying that we are in a similar situation to Germany of the 30s. “NO. We are very far from that.”

He added that there is one difference between us and the people from then. “It is that now we are experienced. We know where anti – Semitism can lead. What catastrophic consequences this kind of hatred can bring. When we say, usually never again, I think it should be clear to everybody that never again is now.”

Aron Weider, Rockland County legislator also spoke at the press conference. He said, “What’s even sadder is that in Rockland County we have an open – door policy. You have a synagogue right over here (pointing to his left) where people can just walk in and out. Even if you’re not a member. Perhaps people will think about it twice, which is a change of lifestyle, which is very sad.”

“I was not here when it happened. I came here afterwards.” He paused, looking over at the synagogue. I saw what everyone else who came here last night saw, a community in terrible distress. A community that is in fear of something like this can happen here can happen anywhere. We have an open door policy and when you have bad people who take advantage of something like that kind of puts fear in your mind, especially if people are not used to this.

Town of Ramapo PD said that today at about 11:45 a.m. Thomas was brought before Judge Schoenberger in Ramapo Town Court. He was arraigned on five counts of Attempted Murder, and one (1) count of Burglary. Bail was set at Five Million Dollars. Mr. Thomas was subsequently transported to the Rockland County Jail by officers from the Rockland County Sheriff’s Department. Ramapo PD is investigating this case and we are being assisted by our law enforcement partners including the Rockland County Sheriff’s Department, the New York State Police, the NYPD, and the FBI.

Reactions from the community:

Statement from Rockland County Executive Ed Day

Getting such a horrific call in the midst of a local holiday celebration is a stark reminder that even in a community as good and serene as ours, evil can visit us. The response of law enforcement was immediate and effective in tracking down this suspect and apprehending him in New York City. We all acknowledge and applaud that effort.

Violence of any kind will not be tolerated here in Rockland. I stand with the people of this County in condemning this attack and ask all to offer their thoughts, hopes and prayers for a speedy recovery for the victims of this heinous crime. As a former Police Commander, people need to know that law enforcement in Rockland will leave no stone unturned as they bring those guilty of this crime to swift and severe justice. As Moses Kahan, an Orthodox Jewish community activist in New York and New Jersey, stated, “County Executive Ed Day and incoming District Attorney Thomas Walsh will not give into the haters and violent criminals.” That is something all can count on.

Statement By Rockland County Legislature Chairman Toney L. Earl On The Attack On Innocent Victims In Monsey

“I am sickened by the attack on our Jewish neighbors in Monsey and condemn it in the strongest possible way. I am praying for a speedy recovery for the innocent victims and for their families during this most difficult of times.

“Our neighbors gathered to celebrate the joys that the light of Hanukkah brings and now they, and good people everywhere, are left shocked and hurting as we grapple to identify a reason for this hateful act. 

“I stand proudly and strongly with my Jewish brothers and sisters and know that together, we shall overcome the bigotry, hatred, racism and anti-Semitism that keeps trying to tighten its grip on us all.” 

Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee’s statement on Monsey Attack 

Late Saturday night on the 7^th night of Hanukkah five people were attacked at Rabbi Rottenberg’s home in Monsey, NY.  This attack is a nightmare for our community. 

In our nation, hate crimes are rising. Those who fan the flames of ethnic, racial, and religious hatred to increase their own power and to fuel their own ambition must understand that their words and actions can cause incidents such as this.  

As chair for the Committee on Children and Families, I believe it is critical for our families to feel safe in their communities.  To this particular community and to the greater Monsey community, it is vital that the investigation be thorough and precise and go beyond the arrest of a suspect. It must go into the full circumstances of this incident, including the motives behind it.  I strongly support efforts by law enforcement, including the Ramapo Police and the State Police, to fully investigate this crime and will aid them in any way I can. 

Statement from Senator David Carlucci

“The horrific act of mass violence at a rabbi’s home in Monsey yesterday, during Hanukkah, has shaken the very foundation of our community. We are all deeply disturbed by the the perpetrator’s callus actions and disregard for human life.

Words matter, and we must call this hateful act on our Jewish community domestic terrorism. We must all unite and be forceful in denouncing hate and anti-Semitism any time we see it. Hate sadly continues to plague our society and pull at the moral fabric of who we are as Americans. It is more important than ever, that no stone go unturned when it comes to solutions to ending hateful rhetoric and anti-Semitic attacks. No one is born hating others, it is a learned behavior, and it needs to be addressed.

The State Police hate crimes task force is investigating this act of domestic terror. I thank our brave members of law enforcement who responded to the scene and who our patrolling our synagogues today out of an abundance of caution. No one should have to worship in fear in this country, and I encourage residents to go about their daily lives.

I thank the members of the Jewish community who have been comforting residents in this time of grief. We pray for the victims and their families.”

Statement from NYGOP Chairman Nick Langworthy on the Rockland County Synagogue Attack

“I am shocked, saddened and angered by the stabbing attack in a Rockland County synagogue on Saturday evening. New York has seen an alarming escalation of attacks on Jews in recent weeks. I urge all our elected officials to call out anti-Semites and anti-Semitism, and for our law enforcement to throw its full weight against this rise in hate. To our friends in the Jewish community, we stand with you.” 

Joint statement from Governor Andrew M. Cuomo & over 130 faith leaders from across the state

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today issued a joint statement with over 130 faith leaders from across the state condemning anti-Semitism in wake of attack that took place during a Hanukkah celebration in Monsey last night. Last night’s mass stabbing is the latest in a disturbing rash of anti-Semitic attacks throughout the state during the Hanukkah holiday. 

“Anti-Semitism, bigotry and hate of any kind are repugnant to our values and will not be tolerated in our state. We condemn this attack and all attacks against members of the Jewish community in New York — an attack against one of us is an attack against all of us. Together we will continue fighting hate and intolerance with love and inclusion.” 

The list of faith leaders and groups who are supporting the Governor’s statement includes: 

• Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York

• Rev. Al Sharpton 

• Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese

• Rev. Dr.  Floyd & Elaine Flake, Greater Allen AME
• Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio, Diocese of Broolyn
• Rev. Dr. A.R. Bernard, Christian Cultural Center 
• Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, New York Board of Rabbis
• Rev. Dr. Calvin Butts, Abyssinian Baptist Church

• Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Grace Baptist Church in Mt Vernon, NY
• Mayor Izzy Spitzer, Village of New Square

• Rabbi Michael Miller, Jewish Community Relations Council 
• Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz, Congregation KJ 
• Steve Gold, Co-President, Jewish Federation and Foundation of Rockland County
• David Kirschtel, CEO, Jewish Community Center Rockland County 
• Allen Fagin, Executive Vice President, Orthodox Union 

• The Right Reverend Andrew ML Dietsche, Episcopal Bishop of New York

• Rabbi Yeruchim Silber, Agudath Israel of America 
• Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum, CBST
• Rabbi Rachel Kohn Troster, Truah 
• Rabbi Hersh Horowitz, Monsey Community Outreach Center

• Michael Schmidt, American Jewish Committee AJC NY

• Eric Goldstein, CEO, UJA 
• Rabbi Arthur Schneier, Park East Synagogue
• Rabbi Elchanan Poupko, EITAN-The American-Israel Network
• MPAC-NY, Mobilizing Preachers & Communities 
• Rev. James Duckett, Fort Mott Baptist Church 
• Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green, Mt. Neboh Baptist Church
• Bishop Orlando Findlayter, New Hope Christian Fellowship
• Rev. Al Cockfield, God’s Battalion of Prayer Church
• Rev. Gil Monrose, Mt. Zion Church of God 7th Day & President of 67th Precinct Clergy Council
• Rev. Steve Lopez, Associate Pastor, Calvary Center Church 
• Rev. Fred Davie, Executive Vice President of Union Theological Seminary
• Rev. Dr. Renee Washington Gardner, Memorial Baptist Church 
• Pastor Wayne Francis, Lead Pastor, Authentic Church
• Rev. Greg Merriweather, Calvary Baptist Church in Haverstraw
• Omar Siddiqi, Leader of Community/Religious Affairs, Osmanli Dergah 
• Rev. Roderick Pearson, St. Mark Remnant Ministries, Inc. 
• Rabbi Howard Beuchler, Dix Hills Jewish Center 
• Dr. Isma Chaudry, Islamic Center of Long Island 
• Imam Abdul-Rahman Yaki, Islamic Center of the Capital District
• Bishop Max Jones, Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ Syracuse
• Pastor Ernest Flagler-Mitchell, Rochester 
• Pastor Kinzer M. Pointer, Agape Fellowship Baptist Church and Convener of the Concerned Clergy Coalition of Western New York
• Rev. Dr. Phil Craig, Greater Springfield Community Church 
• Rabbi Shlomo Nisanov, Kehilat Sephardim of Ahavit Achim
• Mendy Mirocznik, Council of Jewish Organizations of Staten Island

• Imam Tahir Kukiqi, NYPD Chaplains Unit and Vice President of the Albanian Islamic Cultural Center 

• Phyllis Walker, Homeless Outreach Specialist, Brooklyn Tabernacle Church
• Rabbi Dr. Keith Elijah Thompson, Bronx Miracle Gospel Tabernacle
• Rabbi Aaron Slonim, Chabad at Binghamton
• Bishop Darius Pridgen, True Bethel Baptist Church
• Rabbi Chaim Schwartz, Executive Vice President, Vaad Harabonim of Queens 
• Rabbi Deborah K. Bravo, MakomNY Founder and Treasurer of the NY Board of Rabbis 
• Rev. Patrick Young, First Baptist Church of Corona 
• Rabbi Joshua Stanton, East End Temple

• Hussein Rababah, PACE Director, NY Muslim American Society (MAS)
• Rev. Jim Bostic, New Union Church of New Rochelle, Youth Pastor
• Rev. Patrick O’Connor, First Presbyterian Church in Jamaica
• Bishop T. Anthony Bronner, Elim Christian Fellowship
• Bishop Angel Gauthier, Prince of Peace Christian Church
• Rev. Mike Servello, Compassion Coalition Utica
• Dr. Vasundhara Kalasapudi, Executive Director, India Home
• Rabbi Scott Weiner, Senior Rabbi Temple Israel of New Rochelle
• Rabbi Beth Nichols, Temple Israel of New Rochelle
• Eliot Forcheimer, CEO, Westchester Jewish Council 
• Lisa Roberts, President, Westchester Jewish Council 
• Rabbi Mendy Hurwitz, Chabad of Yonkers
• Rev. James Galasinski, Unitarian Universalist Church, Canton NY
• Rabbi Andrew Pepperstone, Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas 
• Rabbi Daniel Fellman, Temple Concord Syracuse
• Rabbi Daniel Jezer, emeritus at Congregation Beth Solom-Chevra Shas
• Rabbi Peter Schaktman, Temple Emanu-El in Utica 
• Rabbi Eli Goodman, Chabad of the Beaches
• Rabbi Anchelle Perl, Chabad of Mineola
• Rev. Demetrius Carolina, Central Family Life Center
• Rev. Sedgwick Easley, Union Baptist Church of Hempstead
• Rev. Dr.  Adolphus Lacey, Bethany Baptist Church 
• Rev. Shaun Lee, Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church 
• Rabbi Mike Moskowitz, Congregation Beit Simchat Torah
• Rev. Bruce Grodner, National Exec Director, American Clergy Leadership Conference (ACLC)
• Dr. Lionel Rouse, Co-Chairman, American Clergy Leadership Conference (ACLC) 
• Babu Kudaravalli, President Telugu Literary and Cultural Association
• Rev. Kate Jones Calone, Interim Pastor, Setauket Presbyterian Church
• Pastor David Traynham, New Horizons Christian Church
• Imam Mohammed ElFiki, The Islamic Society of Central New York
• Rev. Tony Baker, St. Philip’s Baptist Church
• Rev. John Williams, New Creation Ministry, Inc.  
• Pastor Carl Wauchope, City of Refuge NY 
• Pastor Sal Sabino, Heavenly Visions 
• Dr. Siddiqur Rahman, President, Jamaica Muslim Center 
• Rev. Charles Galbreath, Clarendon Road Church 
• Rabbi Bob Kaplan, Jewish Community Relations Council 
• Bishop Mitchell Taylor, Founder & CEO, Urban Upbound 
• Audrey Sasson, Executive Director of Jews for Racial and Economic Justice (JFREJ)
• Rev. Dr. Les Mullings, Far Rockaway Community Church of the Nazarene
• Rabbi Shea Hecht, National Committee for Furtherance of Jewish Education
• Rabbi Yaacov Behrman, Jewish Future Alliance.
• Rev. Emily McNeill, Executive Director, Labor-Religion Coalition
• Michael Cohen, Eastern Director, Simon Wiesenthal Center
• Rabbi Eytan Hammerman, Jewish Community Center of Harrison 
• Pastor John Carter, Abundant Life Christian Center
• Rabbi Eli Cohen, Executive Director, Crown Heights Jewish Community Center 
• Rabbi Chanina Sperlin, Crown Heights Jewish Community Center 
• Rev. Dr. Donna Schaper, Senior Minister, Judson Memorial Church
• Rev. Canon Patrick Malloy, Ph.D., Sub-Dean, The Cathedral of Saint John the Divine
• The Right Reverend Clifton Daniel III, Dean, The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine 
• Rev. Canon Patti Welch, The Cathedral of Saint John the Divine
• Rev. Canon Steven Lee, Canon Pastor and Vicar, The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine
• Rabbi Ben Keil, Young Israel of Pelham Parkway
• The Right Reverend Allen K Shin, Bishop Suffragan of New York
• The Right Reverend Mary D Glasspool, Bishop Assistant of New York
• Rabbi Neal Loevinger, Temple Beth-El, Poughkeepsie
• Imam Ajmal Agha of the Islamic Cultural Center of Rochester
• Avi Greenstein, CEO, Boro Park Jewish Community Council
• Rabbi Andy Bachman, Executive Director, JCP Downtown
• Pastor Jay A Gooding Sr., Miracle Revival Temple, Fellowship Tabernacle Ministries, Church of God In Christ, President Clergy Council 49th Precinct
• Rev. Victor Brown, Mount Sinai United Christian Church
• Bishop C. Nathan Edwers, Senior Pastor, Friendship Worship Center
• Rabbi Avi Kilimnick from Congregation Beth Shalom in Rochester
• Avi Posnick, StandWithUs

• Elder Robert Martinez Rice, Bethel Gospel Assembly

• Rabbi Menachem Creditor, UJA 
• Bishop Minnie Crawford, The House of God Diocese 
• The Rev. Delvin Moody, the House of God Church, Inc. 

• Pastor Daren Jaime, The People’s A.M.E. ZION Church
• Ali Javed, Chairman, Upper Westchester Muslim Society
• Daniel Korobkin, President, Rabbinical Council of America
• Rabbi Mark Wildes, Manhattan Jewish Experience
• Bishop Dr. Luonne Abram Rouse, Family Church 
• Bishop Kenrick McBean, Redeem Christian Fellowship 
• Bro. Anthony Zuba, OFM Cap., Pastoral Associate, Church of the Good Shepherd

• Rabbi Allen Schwartz, Congregation Ohab Zedek
• Rabbi Daniel Sherman, West Side Institutional Synagogue

BY DYLAN SKRILOFF

MONSEY – Following the horrific machete attack at Rabbi Rottenburg’s shul on Dec. 28 weekend Anthony Mele of AMI Global Security provided weapons and training to several members of another local shul.

Mele, aware of open carry laws in New York, instructed the Orthodox men, several of whom were infantry members in the Israel Defense Force, to keep the weapons unloaded when outside. Mele said the image of the men with weapons should send the message that members of the community are not helpless.

As a security expert, Mele said he was also concerned about the potential for a second hit. His job is to be a good shepard to his clients, so that no further tragedy would befall “his sheep.”

“Not these sheep,” he said. “I was there to provide guidance and vision.”

Mele had responded to a request for assistance from  persons friendly with him, who were concerned for their safety. The picture of the Orthodox men went viral across the world and also caused some backlash.

Even the police pushed back at Mele, but the former political candidate and Chestnut Ridge resident said he had “the right facts” to deflect their pressure.

“Why can’t the Second Amendment apply to everyone,” said Mele, bristling at the criticism.

Also in response to the situation, Mele has co-founded with his Monsey neighbors the Jewish Community Self Defense Group Initiative. “The community should be trained and capable of defending themselves,” Mele said.

Other security measures were also taken, with the county executive recruiting another security firm to run patrols in Jewish communities for a period of time and weapons instructor Zev Oster hosting a weapons fair.

Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh, II today announced that Alias Stone aka “Billy Pugh” (DOB 07/01/64) of 140 Old Orangeburg Road, Orangeburg, New York has been sentenced on his February 11, 2019 conviction after a jury trial of:

• One count of Manslaughter in the First Degree, a class “B”Felony

in connection with the death of a fellow patient at the Rockland Psychiatric Center.

On July 31, 2017, at approxamately 5 p.m, Stone violently attacked fellow Rockland Psychiatric Center patient Ronald Randolph. The defendant punched and stomped on the victim’s head numerous times, as he lay unconscious and defenseless. Stone was eventually restrained by Rockland Psychiatric Center employees and removed from the room, but not before breaking free and further attacking Randolph.
The victim died from his injuries on August 14, 2017.

At the defendant’s sentencing on January 3, 2020, Judge Schwartz adjudicated the defendant a violent predicate felon and sentenced the defendant to 22 years in state prison.
The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Michael Dugandzic.

The Clarkstown Police Department is currently investigating a bank robbery that occurred at the Chase Bank located at 123 E RT. 59 in Nanuet. The robbery occurred today at approximately 10:40 a.m.  The investigation is underway and is being conducted by the Clarkstown Detective Bureau.

At approximately 10:40 a.m. the Clarkstown Police Department responded to a report of a bank robbery at the Chase Bank. The initial reports stated that a male wearing a black knit cap, black jacket and blue jeans entered the bank and passed a note to the teller.  At this point in the investigation it is still unclear the amount of money was stolen by the suspect. The suspect exited the bank and possibly fled in a blue taxi.  There were no injuries to the bank employees.

The detectives are continuing the investigation, reviewing survelliance video and interviewwing the bank employees. There is no further information at this time and we provide updates as information becomes available.  If you witnessed this incident or have any information about the incident please call the Clarkstown Police Department at 845-639-5800.

The Clarkstown Police Department is investigating a burglary that occurred at just before midnight on Thursday, January 30 at Ashar School, 360 New Hempstead Rd., New City.

Responding officers were met by school staff who stated that multiple locked interior doors leading to offices had been forcibly opened. The suspect gained entry to the building by forcing an exterior door open. The list of stolen items has yet to be compiled at this time.

Police noted the burglary appeared to be a crime of opportunity with no undertones of hate. The Rockland Jewish community remains on alert for anti-semitism following the recent attack at a Hannukkah celebration in Monsey.

The school was not occupied at the time of the burglary and it was closed for Friday’s classes prior to any students arriving.

Defendant Faces 3 to 7 years in prison

Defendant Johnny Lozier (DOB: 12/21/78), of Albany, NY, was convicted of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree and Endangering the Welfare of a Child by the Honorable Kevin F. Russo on February 6, 2020. Lozier sexually abused a female child in the Town of Haverstraw during September 2019; the child was eight-years old at the time. The matter was investigated by the Town of Haverstraw Police with the assistance of the Special Victims Unit of the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office. Sentencing is presently scheduled for May 13, 2020. The defendant is facing between 3 and 7 years in State Prison, followed by a period of 5-15 years of post-release supervision. Upon his release from custody, defendant will also have to register as a sex offender.

District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh, II. said, “These horrible cases against children are very difficult to investigate due to the nature of the crimes. Our Special Victims Unit does an amazing job finding the perpetrators and brining them to jusitce. I commend the work of my office and the Haverstraw Police Department for their tireless efforts and I thank Supervising Assistant District Attorney of the SVU Unit, Kathleen Devlin, who prosecuted this case.”

It should be noted that a criminal complaint is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

By Keith Shikowitz

On the eve of the one year anniversary of the murder at the 7-11 in Garnerville on Central Highway, at approximately 2 p.m. according to Rockland County District Attorney Tom Walsh, 52-year-old security guard Sandra Wilson was stabbed by 25-year-old Blanchard Glaudin on the third floor of the Finkelstein Library in Spring Valley. At approximately 3:45 p.m. Walsh stated that the guard had passed away. He had no further comment at that time.

The incident came as a complete surprise to all who were on the third floor. Luis Velasquez, very shaken up by the incident, through a translator explained what happened. “The man attacked the security guard. Only the security guard. He was not in conflict with any other person.”

Velasquez was on a computer minding his own business when everything happened. “It happened very fast. I saw the knife in front of me. The man didn’t say anything. He just ran and many people held him against the door until the police came to arrest him.”

He has no idea why this happened. His general reaction to this was, “It was very bad. I though this was a safe place. I didn’t think anything like this would ever happen.”

Joe Knop was on the third floor at the time of the incident. “I did not see the actual stabbing. I was on the other part of the room. The commotion was on the left side of the room. Within seconds the commotion shifted to the right side of the room.”

He later learned that there were two sides to the commotion. The left side is where the victim still laid on the floor and the right side, they tackled him to the ground. “Which part I did not see the tackling. I went over to the left side of the room and tried assisting the victim. I am not a trained professional, but I did have some training in first aid.”

At first Knop was observing and according to him, the victim was passed out. “All of the sudden I noticed a big gush of blood from the left side of the neck and shoulder area. I started yelling, someone should give me a piece of clothing. Some people took off their shirts and I applied pressure to the area.” He later noticed an additional stab wound, but no blood was coming out. “It was the lower, I believe left abdomen. We called Hatzolah. They were there within moments. When they arrived, they checked for a pulse. There was none.

While he was still there, he believed Wilson was still breathing. “This is how it appeared to me, otherwise I would have started CPR. They started CPR. I went to wash off my hands. They were covered in blood. I did not see the rest of the part.” He noticed later that the knife was still on the right side of the room and that the police were securing the knife. “It was still there on the floor. I didn’t see them hold him down. I heard they held him, kicked the knife away. They held him until the police took him.”

When someone is accused of committing a crime, our legal system has a number of tiers that must be climbed. The first, after the arrest is the arraignment. This is where the accused enters a plea to the charges against him/her. By 7 p.m. February 18, Glaudin was in front of Spring Valley Justice, Djrsad Desir to answer the charges. His Attorney Victor Daly – Rivera waited for him to be brought into the courtroom.

Glaudin was walked in by police who were stationed on the side by the jury box and behind him. Prior to his being led into the courtroom, police asked some people to leave the room. It seemed they were taking precautions to avoid any conflict in the court.

Daly–Rivera waived the reading of the charges and entered a plea of not guilty. Desir asked the prosecutor if he would like to be heard on the matter. He stated, Yes, Your Honor. Based on the charge of Murder in the second degree, the defendant is subject to automatic remand.

Daly–Rivera didn’t object. Desir explained, “Yes, that’s correct. Since the defendant is charged with Murder in the second degree, this court is constrained to remand the defendant to the custody of the Rockland County Jail. Preliminary hearing to be held on Monday February 24, at 9 a.m.”

The prosecutor also served a grand jury notice to the defendant and the court.

After the arraignment, Spring Valley Trustee Eudson Tyson Francois spoke with the press. “My relationship with this wonderful woman was like it is with everyone in this community. What an amazing woman. Phenomenal as a matter of fact. We were just in the library last week talking about things we wanted to do in the near future. She also represented the East Ramapo School District. This is such an emotional moment for everyone. There is not much I can really say except that we are all in mourning for a wonderful human being. wonderful human being.”

Francois was asked what his reaction was to this happening in the library. He had trouble responding. The emotions of the day obviously catching up to him. “I mean I’m angry at what took place. It shouldn’t happen to anyone of course. It shouldn’t have happened. Whether it’s the library, or here. She was doing her job. That’s how it happened. I don’t know what led to this, but, I just want to mourn with the family at this time. My prayers are with the entire family. I also want to recognize the finest police department for just being in the scene right on time and doing their due diligence of course.”

Teressa King a resident, was walking towards the library and asked what was going on. When she was told what had happened her jaw went agape. This event has made her question the safety of living in Rockland. Her initial reaction was, “Is it ever going to be a safe environment or a safe county for anyone to live in.” She has three children, ages 2, 5 and 7, whose safety she worries about.

“I’m thinking about trying to find something better, safer environment, cheaper environment.” Although she admitted that she had no idea what area would be safer. “This is the fifth death or stabbing.” Upon reflection she felt that moving would not necessarily be safer. “Rockland County is a known quantity.”

As much as she wants safety for her and her children, she can’t come up with a way to achieve it. She concluded, “Anywhere you go you’re going to find things like this.”

The Finkelstein Library will be closed today February 19, 2020.

Glaudin reportedly suffered from mental health challenges. A Youtube page titled Blanchard Glaudin that appears to belong to the defendant details his struggles with demonic spirits and feelings of being persecuted by “Satanists.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcWhnFTQ0Jk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRiWTLTPU4A

Defendant Faces Up to 25 Years To Life in Prison 

Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh, II announced today that Blanchard Glaudin (DOB 7/2/94), homeless, was indicted on one count of Murder in the Second Degree, a class “A” Felony. This charge is in connection with the killing of Sandra Wilson. District Attorney Walsh said, “As Rockland County says good bye to Sandra Wilson at her funeral service, I can state that Mr. Glaudin will be held accountable for the horrific murder of Sandra Wilson. My team will continue its pursuit of justice. I can only hope that this news brings some comfort to the family of Ms. Wilson.” On February 18, 2020, at approximately 2:00 p.m., Glaudin allegedly used a knife to fatally stab Wilson in the chest and body while she was working at the Finkelstein Library, Spring Valley, New York. Arraignment on the indictment is pending.

On Thursday, February 20 at 2 p.m. the Clarkstown Police Department executed a search warrant at 34 Church Street in Nanuet.

The search warrant was a result of an investigation conducted by the Clarkstown Police Department Street Crime Unit after several complaints were received about drug sales taking place at the location. The search warrant resulted in the seizure of a loaded AR-15 style assault weapon, crack cocaine, a counterfeit $100 bill and drug paraphernalia.

Three suspects were arrested and processed at Clarkstown Police headquarters identified as Jenna Mazzella, 27, Anderson Jean, 36, and Richard Carpentieri (Knieriem), 34, all from Nanuet. Mazzella and Carpentieri were charged with criminal possession of forged instrument 1st (felony), criminal possession weapon (assault) 3rd (felony), criminal possession weapon (previous conviction) 3rd (felony) and criminal possession weapon 4th (misdemeanor). Anderson was charged with 2 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance (intent sell) 3rd (felony) and criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd (misdemeanor).

They were arraigned in Clarkstown Justice Court. Anderson Jean was denied bail due to previous felony convictions, while both Mazzella and Carpentieri (Knieriem) had bail set at $1,0000. All three suspects were transported to the Rockland County Jail.

Defendant Charged With a Felony

Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II announced that JORGE FLORES-VILLALBA (06/23/1992) of Broad St. Haverstraw, New York has been indicted on a charge of Leaving the Scene of an Incident Causing a Personal Injury That Results in Death Without Reporting(felony). The charge stems from a fatal hit and run that occurred on December 24, 2019 at the intersection of Liberty Dr and Filors Lane in Stony Point, that took the life of Maria Osai.

District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh, II. said, “I can’t even imagine the pain and despair that the family of Maria Osai felt losing their loved one the day before Christmas. I know that the Stony Point Police Department, Haverstraw Police Department and the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office has worked with my team to seek justice for Maria in this tragic case. I have full faith that they will not relent until the job is complete.”

Defendants Indicted On Felony Charges

Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II announced the following indictments from March 4, 2020 Rockland County Grand Jury:

Tyrell Bridgers (5/1/1983) of Nyack, NY was indicted for Assault 2nd (felony); Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd (felony); Resisting Arrest (misdemeanor); Driving While Intoxicated and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3rd (misdemeanor) stemming from an incident that took place on February 28, 2020, on Main St. in Nyack. The defendant drove his motor vehicle while having a suspended license in an intoxicated condition. As Orangetown Police attempted to investigate the situation, the defendant became combative and fought with the officers on scene, causing injury to one of the officers. Senior Assistant DA Rob Trudell is prosecuting the case.

Victor Sanchez (5/8/2002) of Haverstraw, NY, was indicted for Attempted Murder 2nd (felony) and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd (felony). As an Adolescent Offender, the defendant’s case will be prosecuted in the Rockland County Youth Part of Superior Court.

Relatedly, Tarique Wilson (1/30/97) of Spring Valley, NY, was indicted for Hindering Prosecution 2nd (felony).

The indictments follow an investigation by the Spring Valley Police Department into the shooting, by Victor Sanchez, of an individual at Municipal Plaza in Spring Valley on February 27, 2020, and his flight from the scene with Tarique Wilson. Executive Assistant DA Tina Guccione is prosecuting the case.

District Attorney Tom Walsh said” I’m pleased to see the hard work of law enforcement is making its way through the judicial system with the end result being justice realized for the offenders and a safer Rockland County.”

The Clarkstown Police Department is currently investigating an incident where a swastika had been drawn on a student desk at Clarkstown South High School. It has been reported that the drawing was placed on the desk sometime between February 28th and March 3rd, when it was discovered. The police were shown a photo of the swastika taken by a staff member, due to the fact that the swastika had been cleaned off the desk prior to our arrival. The Clarkstown Police Department wants to reiterate our stance that no symbol of hate including swastikas has a place in our society, especially our schools. The Clarkstown Detective Bureau is investigating this incident and we are asking anyone who may have information regarding this to please call the Clarkstown Police at (845)639-5800.

Clarkstown PD report that at approximately 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 7 a robbery took place in the area of N. Middletown Rd. in Nanuet. The victim stated while he was smoking marijuana with acquaintances he was asked multiple times by the suspect tfor some, which he refused each time.  

A verbal argument then turned into a physical altercation where the suspect did grab the victim and displayed a knife.  The suspect threatened to “poke” the victim if he refused to give him the marijuana. The victim did give the  marijuana to the suspect and then fled the area.  

The victim identified the suspect as Jefferson Jacob, 18/M, from Nanuet. Jefferson was located a short time later at his residence where he was placed under arrest and transported to Clarkstown Police headquarters. 

Jacob was charged with the following offenses: Robbery 1^st (Felony), Grand Larceny 4^th (Felony), Menacing (weapon) 2^nd (Misdemeanor), and Criminal Possession Weapon 2^nd (Misdemeanor).  He was arraigned in Clarkstown Justice Court where bail was set at $20,000. Jefferson was transported to the Rockland County Jail and given a return date for Clarkstown Justice Court on March 11.

By: Joel Grossbarth

A Federal Judge in White Plains has determined that the man charged with Federal hate crimes in connection with the Chanukah attack on a Monsey home is currently mentally incompetent to stand trial. United States Federal Judge Cathy Seibel issued an Order this week confirming a psychological report issued by a Court-appointed evaluator finding Grafton Thomas “is presently suffering from a mental disease or defect rendering him mentally incompetent to the extent he is unable to assist properly in his defense.”

Thomas is charged with multiple counts of Federal hate crimes in connection with the December 28, 2019 attack on the home of a Rabbi while parishioners were celebrating Chanukah. The attack left five people critically injured including Josef Neuman, who last month died of the injuries sustained in the attack.

Judge Seibel ordered the Attorney General and the Federal Bureau of Prisons to immediately take Thomas into custody and house him at a suitable medical facility for a period not to exceed four months. Thomas is to be evaluated and the Court is to be informed if at any time it is determined that he becomes competent to assist his defense. Under the Federal criminal laws, a person who isn’t competent to stand trial can’t be convicted of a crime. Courts require competency before a defendant stands trial in order to preserve due process—that is, to make sure the proceedings are fair.

A determination of competency to stand trial is legally unrelated to the defendant’s mental state at the time of the alleged crime. Competency is not a defense. During his arraignment on the Federal charges, Thomas pleaded not guilty to the charges, without asserting any insanity defenses. When he is found competent for trial and is able to properly assist in his defense, a trial on the charges will take place.

Thomas also faces a fifteen-count New York State indictment including attempted murder charges in Rockland County Criminal Court. Based upon the death of Josef Neuman last month it is highly likely that a superseding indictment will be issued by a grand jury once the current pandemic allows for them to meet and consider the proposed new charges presented by District Attorney Thomas Walsh.

By: Keith S. Shikowitz

On Friday, April 17th, 2020 at approximately 1:10 pm the Clarkstown Police responded to reports of gunshots fired in the area of W. Burda Pl. in New City.

Officer Peters of the Clarkstown Police Department said, “We had reports of shots fired at and a possible vehicle accident at about 1:05. We are still determining what the actual incident was over there.”

The injuries were not immediately life threatening since the victim an adult male, 29, was able to drive himself to Nyack Hospital. It was determined that he received two gunshot wounds, one to the face and one to the back. He is in serious but stable condition at Westchester Medical Center.

As of right now we have a vague description of suspect vehicle but we don’t have any description of any of the perpetrators. The police do not know if the shooter was male or female. No cars were at the scene when the first responding officers arrived. The incident was called in by some of the residents in the area.

Officer Peters was not releasing any information about witnesses to or the type of weapon used in the shooting but responding units found multiple shell casings in the roadway.

The Detective Bureau is currently investigating to determine the circumstances as to why this incident occurred and the identity of the suspects. If anyone was in the area or may have witnessed anything in regards to the incident, please contact the Detective Bureau at (845)639-5840.