Uniondale, NY - December 21, 2018 - First Squad detectives report the arrest of a Uniondale man for an incident that occurred on Thursday, December 20, 2018 at 1:10 pm in Uniondale.
According to detectives, while on the phone talking to his friend and walking on Uniondale Avenue near Spuhler Place, the victim, a 28 year old male, was approached from behind by Benjamin Francis, 29, a person unknown to the victim. Francis struck the victim in the back of the head and tackled him to the ground. Believing that Francis was attempting to steal his phone a struggle ensued.
The victim’s friend, a 25 year old male, hearing the commotion over the phone and being near where the incident was taking place ran to the location to assist his friend. After being punched in the face by Francis, both victims were able to gain control of him until police arrived and placed him into custody. Both victims and Francis were transported to an area hospital for treatment of contusions and swelling to the head.
Francis is charged with Attempted Robbery 3rd Degree, two (2) counts of Assault 3rd Degree, and Criminal Mischief 2nd Degree. He will be arraigned in First District Court, Hempstead on 12/21/2018.
A criminal charge is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.