An ex-convict has been accused of stealing an ambulance and then crashing into an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in the Morris Park area of the Bronx. Tragically, the EMT died as a result of the auto theft accident.

The suspect is a 25-year-old resident of the Bronx. He allegedly stole the ambulance from the victims – a female EMT and a male EMT – around 7:00 p.m. near the intersection of White Plains Road and Watson Avenue in the Bronx. According to witnesses, the suspect flagged down the ambulance by pretending to be in desperate need of medical assistance. As soon as the ambulance workers stopped and got out of the vehicle to check on the condition of the suspect, the suspect allegedly moved inside the ambulance and attempted to drive away. When the EMTs attempted to prevent the suspect from leaving the scene, he allegedly hit reverse and backed up the vehicle. Both EMTs were hit hard and fell to the pavement. The female EMT – who later died due to internal injuries – got stuck on the back of the ambulance and was dragged across the roadway.

After the accident, the suspect reportedly got out of the ambulance and tried to flee the scene on foot. An MTA police officer saw the entire incident and managed to chase down the suspect.

The suspect now faces criminal charges for murder, grand larceny, and operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs. A conviction on the most serious charge of first degree murder could lead to a sentence of life imprisonment.

NYPD officials indicated that the suspect has a checkered criminal past, which includes prior convictions for aggravated assault, distribution of marijuana, possession of marijuana, criminal mischief, public lewdness, and turnstile jumping.

Authorities also described the suspect as “emotionally disturbed.” At the time of his arrest, he was allegedly high on illegal narcotics. During an incident in February 2017, the suspect allegedly spit on a police officer and then tried to kick out the window of a police van.

The suspect’s criminal record could be a factor in any sentence handed down in the homicide case. The reality is that judges often take a defendant’s prior record into account during sentencing because they view a criminal record, or the absence of a criminal record, as a good indication of how likely the defendant is to reoffend. In fact, judges, prosecutors, and other law enforcement officials in New York are constantly strategizing new and inventive ways to combat recidivism.

Additionally, keep in mind that a person with a criminal record won’t just find it difficult in the courtroom if they are ever accused of another crime. A criminal record can also make it tough to find a job, keep a job, buy a house, or secure a loan in the future.

 

If you were arrested and charged with a criminal offense in New York, a qualified criminal defense attorney may be able to help you get the charges dismissed. The experienced criminal defense lawyers at the LaDuca Law Firm will look over your case and help you explore all your available legal options. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our office in Rochester, New York.