East Rockaway, NY - May 29, 2017 - Fourth Squad detectives report the details of four arrests for an assault that occurred in East Rockaway on Sunday, 05/28/17 at 2:25 P.M.
According to detectives, Brandon Battaglia, 18, Robert Battaglia, 18, Avante Lester, 24, all of East Rockaway, Kristin Milbank, 17, of Oceanside, and others not yet apprehended, assaulted a male victim while on Marjorie Lane in Bay Park. The defendants’ encircled two male victims, ages 18 and 19, and sprayed pepper spray in their eyes. The defendants’ then began striking one of the male victims on the head and body with baseball bats, while punching and kicking him. The defendants’ then fled the scene on foot.
One male victim, who suffered lacerations to the head, concussions and bruising, was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The other male victim, who was only pepper sprayed, refused medical attention at the scene.
Fourth Precinct police officers located the defendants’ in the vicinity shortly thereafter, and were placed under arrest.
All four defendants’ were charged with Assault 1st Degree, Gang Assault 1st Degree and Criminal Possession Weapon 4th Degree. Kristen Milbank, who was found to be in possession of brass knuckles and a knife, was additionally, charged with Criminal Possession Weapon 4th Degree and Possession of Noxious Material. The defendants’ will be arraigned on Monday, 05/29/17 in First District Court, Hempstead.
A criminal charge is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.