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Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney

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Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on March 11 that Jeffrey Sloan, 62, and Rashad Sloan, 33, both of Central Islip, were indicted for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, and other related charges, for selling narcotics after an investigation into the fatal overdose of a 25-year-old Brentwood resident.

“I have said it time and time again: we will not tolerate the sale of these poisons in Suffolk County,” said District Attorney Tierney. “My office will prosecute those responsible for selling deadly drugs and causing fatal overdoses to the fullest extent possible. Furthermore, I will continue to push for the passing of the ‘Death by Dealer’ statute to ensure that all dealers are charged with homicide for the fatal overdoses that they cause.”

According to the investigation, on February 6, 2025, members of the Suffolk County Police Department responded to a residence in Brentwood in response to a fatal drug overdose. While at the location, law enforcement recovered nine glassine envelopes containing residue from a mixture of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and ketamine. Additionally, a pill containing Xanax and the victim’s cellular telephone were also recovered from the scene.

A review of the victim’s cellular telephone revealed communication between him and an individual now known to investigators as Jeffrey Sloan. Text messages revealed that the victim ordered narcotics from Jeffrey Sloan, namely 13 bags of heroin and one Xanax pill, in exchange for the negotiated price of $140. The two men arranged to meet at the 7-Eleven convenience store located at Crooked Hill Road in Brentwood on February 4, 2025.

Members of law enforcement then responded to the 7-Eleven to investigate and were able to obtain surveillance footage. The video depicted the victim utilizing the ATM machine to withdraw cash. Jeffrey Sloan is observed in the surveillance video arriving at the 7-Eleven location and allegedly engages in what appears to be a hand-to-hand narcotics transaction with the victim.

An autopsy performed by the Suffolk County Medical Examiner found fentanyl, cocaine, ketamine, morphine, and fentanyl analogues in the victim’s body and determined the death to be caused by a mixed drug intoxication.

On February 19, 2025, members of the Suffolk County Police Department searched Sloan’s residence, his camper, and three vehicles pursuant to a court-authorized search warrant. They allegedly found over 16 ounces of a mixture of fentanyl and heroin, over half an ounce of cocaine, over 100 assorted pills, including Xanax and oxycodone, numerous cellular telephones, a ledger detailing narcotics transactions, and drug paraphernalia, including digital scales, glassine envelopes, cutting agents, gloves and masks.

Also present at the residence was Rashad Sloan. When they searched Rashad Sloan’s bedroom, police recovered a pistol, a high-capacity magazine, a quantity of cocaine, a digital scale, drug packaging material, and cash.

On March 10, 2025, Jeffrey Sloan was arraigned on the indictment before Acting Supreme Court Justice Richard I. Horowitz, for the following charges contained in the indictment:

• One count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree, a Class A-1 felony;

• One count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree, a Class A-2 felony;

• One count of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, a Class B felony;

• Thirteen counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, Class B felonies;

• One count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree, a Class C felony;

• One count of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree, a Class D felony; • Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree, Class D felonies;

• Six counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree, Class A misdemeanors; and
• Five counts of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia in the Second Degree, Class A misdemeanors.

Justice Horowitz ordered Jeffrey Sloan remanded during the pendency of the case. He is due back in court on March 27, 2025, and faces 24 years in prison if convicted on the top count. He is being represented by Adeline Arvelo, Esq.

On March 10, 2025, Rashad Sloan was arraigned on the indictment before Justice Horowitz for the following charges contained in the indictment:

  • Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, Class B felonies;
  • One count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, a Class D felony;
  • One count of Criminal Possession of a Firearm, a Class E felony; and
  • Two counts of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia in the Second Degree, Class A

    misdemeanors.

    Justice Horowitz ordered Rashad Sloan held on $100,000 cash, $200,000 bond, or $500,000 partially secured bond. He is due back in court on April 3, 2025, and faces 9 years in prison if convicted on the top count. He is being represented by Raymond Perini, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Dana Gremaux of the Narcotics Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by members of the Suffolk County Narcotics Section.

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Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on March 11 that Cristian Mendoza-Baquiax, 37, of Riverhead, pleaded guilty to three counts of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide, and other related charges, following a multi-vehicle crash on County Road 105 in Riverhead, killing his own passenger, Nelson Reyes-Muxin, 33, of Riverhead, and injuring several others.

“This defendant’s fateful decision to drive while under the influence of alcohol caused the tragic death of Nelson Reyes-Muxin and severe injuries to several other individuals,” said District Attorney Tierney. “This conviction is a reminder to all that drunk driving kills.”

According to court documents and the defendant’s admissions during his guilty plea allocution, on August 7, 2024, at approximately 6:15 p.m., the defendant was operating a white 2010 Acura MDX northbound on County Road 105 in Riverhead. Mendoza-Baquiax drove around a northbound car at a high rate of speed and into the opposite lane of travel, where he struck several vehicles. In total, seven cars were involved in the crash. A passenger in the defendant’s vehicle, Nelson Reyes- Muxin, died as a result of injuries he sustained. Another passenger also in the defendant’s vehicle sustained multiple fractures to his arm, a dislocated shoulder, and was treated at Peconic Bay Medical Center.

The driver of another vehicle involved in the crash sustained two fractured legs, a dislocated ankle, and was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital for medical treatment. In addition, two other individuals were transported to local hospitals for injuries they sustained as a result of the crash.

Mendoza-Baquiax exhibited signs of intoxication and stated that he had six beers. He was subsequently placed under arrest and consented to a blood draw upon request by police. Toxicology tested of his blood revealed a blood alcohol concentration of .21%. The defendant was taken to Stony Brook University Hospital for treatment of injuries he sustained from the crash. A sample of the defendant’s blood taken by hospital staff upon his admission was also seized pursuant to a search warrant. Subsequent toxicology testing of that sample, taken at an earlier time than the sample taken by police, revealed that he had a .25% blood alcohol content.

On March 11, 2025, Mendoza-Baquiax pleaded guilty before Acting Supreme Court Justice Steven A. Pilewski to the following charges:

  • Three counts of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide, Class B felonies;
  • One count of Manslaughter in the Second Degree, a Class C felony;
  • Two counts of Assault in the Second Degree, Class D felonies;
  • One count of Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, a Class E felony; and
  • Two counts of Assault in the Third Degree, Class A misdemeanors.

    The defendant is due back in court for sentencing on April 15, 2025, where he is expected to be sentenced to five to 15 years imprisonment. He is being represented by the Suffolk County Legal Aid Society.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Alexander Bopp of the Vehicular Crime Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective Michael Carrieri of the Riverhead Town Police Department.

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Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office

The Defendant Faces Up to 25 Years in Prison at Sentencing

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on March 3 that a Huntington Station man, 33, (who is not being named to avoid indentifying the victim) was found guilty after a jury trial of Assault in the First Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child, for beating his girlfriend’s two-year-old daughter causing life-threatening injuries.

“A defenseless two-year-old child was left in critical condition after enduring horrific injuries caused by this defendant under circumstances evincing his depraved indifference to her life,” said District Attorney Tierney. “No parent should ever come home to find their child in such a state, and no child should ever have to endure such heinous abuse. We thank the jury for their time and attention in this case, and we will be seeking the maximum penalty allowable under the law at the defendant’s sentencing.”

The evidence at trial established that between February 17, 2024 and February 19, 2024, the defendant was babysitting his girlfriend’s two-year-old daughter while she went to work and ran errands.

Upon returning home on February 18, 2024, the child’s mother noticed significant bruises on her child’s body, and on February 19, 2024, she noticed that her child had a new, significant bruise on her face, that her child was vomiting profusely, and was unable to stand or respond to her.

The mother brought her child to the emergency room at Huntington Hospital, where it was determined that the child was in critical condition. The child was then transferred to Cohen Children’s Medical Center, where she received emergency surgery to repair a life-threatening injury to her small intestine which was caused by significant blunt force trauma.

On February 28, 2025, the defendant was convicted of the following charges after a jury trial heard before Supreme Court Justice Timothy P. Mazzei:

  • One count of Assault in the First Degree, a Class B violent felony;
  • Two counts of Assault in the Second Degree, Class D violent felonies; and
  • One count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a Class A misdemeanor.

    The defendant is due back in court for sentencing on April 10, 2025, and faces up to 25 years in prison on the top count. He is being represented by Matthew Tuohy, Esq.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Katherine Flinchum and Kirsten Reilly of the Child Abuse and Domestic Violence Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective Christopher Albanese of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Special Victims Section.

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James Carr

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Feb. 28 that James Carr, 35, of Lake Grove, was found guilty after a jury trial of assault and drug possession charges, for the near-fatal overdose of his infant child. Co-defendant Robert Mauro, 33, of Miller Place, previously pleaded guilty to numerous crimes related to the fatal overdose of a 33-year-old adult female in January 2024.

“My office is determined and dedicated to fight the fentanyl crisis, and this conviction represents another step in the right direction,” said District Attorney Tierney. “This is the first time in New York that fentanyl has been deemed a dangerous instrument. We will continue our commitment to hold drug dealers accountable for selling this poison. My office will continue to fight to make sure we keep our children safe from fentanyl, and we will continue to seek justice for all victims of the fentanyl crisis.”

The evidence at Carr’s trial, and Mauro’s admissions during his guilty plea allocution, established that on January 13, 2024, members of the Suffolk County Police Department and the Ronkonkoma Fire Department responded to a 911 call reporting a non-responsive infant on Colmar Avenue in Lake Grove.

When they arrived, “John Doe,” an 11-month-old infant, had turned blue, his eyes were rolled toward the back of his head, and he was having extreme difficulty breathing.

Due to his serious condition, the ambulance that was transporting the boy to the hospital had to pull over during the transit so a MedCat Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) could board the ambulance to provide additional lifesaving care to the infant. The child had stopped breathing for an extended period of time on the way to Stony Brook University Hospital and had been unresponsive for approximately 40 minutes. The medics inside the ambulance determined that the symptoms the child was exhibiting were from opiate poisoning. They quickly acted and provided the baby with a quantity of Narcan in each nostril. Five minutes after the administration of Narcan, he took a full breath on his own and began to cry.

Once at the hospital, the 11-month-old child was diagnosed with acute fentanyl poisoning, hypoxia, and respiratory failure and required additional doses of Narcan in the Pediatric Emergency Room. After his admission to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, the infant was placed on a Narcan drip in order to prevent recurrent respiratory failure due to the opioid poisoning. James Carr, the child’s father, was arrested on the same day.

A search of the Lake Grove residence was conducted by the Suffolk County Police Department, and investigators recovered a straw containing cocaine, 4-ANPP (a precursor to fentanyl), heroin, and fentanyl residue, a digital scale containing cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl residue, and a plastic bag containing cocaine residue.

A review of phone data recovered from Carr’s phone revealed that on January 4, 2024, and January 5, 2024, he was in contact with Mauro where they discussed a sale of narcotics where Mauro offered to sell narcotics to Carr. Mauro knew that the narcotics that he intended to sell Carr had caused an overdose previously and advertised the drugs to Carr as an “oz of fire that some kid od’d off of.” Over the next few days, Carr actively sought out the drugs from Mauro. On January 9, 2024, Mauro sold the drug to Carr, just four days before the infant ingested a near-fatal dose of fentanyl.

On January 29, 2024, while Suffolk County Police Department Fourth Squad detectives were conducting their investigation into Carr and Mauro, Homicide Squad detectives responded to a fatal overdose that occurred at a home in Patchogue. At that location, law enforcement recovered from the scene the 31-year-old victim’s1 cell phone, and a quantity of fentanyl/4-ANPP.

A review of the victim’s phone data showed that she too had purchased narcotics from Mauro. This sale occurred on January 28, 2024. A further review of the data showed that on January 26, 2024, the victim texted Mauro that she had not used heroin in over a year and was concerned about the substance she was going to buy.

She texted, “I’m not trying to drop dead,” and asked, “is it really strong? Should I be concerned?” Mauro responded that “lol u will b fine” and that he would sell her a “non-fenty” mix, meaning narcotics without any fentanyl. That same day Mauro told an unidentified purchaser that his product was so strong that it put him “out” for a couple of hours.

An autopsy conducted by the Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office concluded that the female victim’s cause of death was acute intoxication due to the combined effects of fentanyl, fluro fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, methoxyacytal fentanyl, xylazine, and buprenorphine.

Xylazine, also known as “Tranq,” is a powerful sedative, commonly used by veterinarians to tranquilize large livestock, and is increasingly used by drug dealers as a “cutting agent” to increase their profits on their sale of drugs. Despite legislative efforts championed by District Attorney Tierney, Xylazine is still currently legal to possess and sell in New York State.

On February 20, 2024, a search warrant was executed at Mauro’s home in Miller Place. During the execution of the warrant, Mauro attempted to destroy evidence by throwing a digital scale and a quantity of fentanyl/4-ANPP out of his bedroom window into the snow, but those items were recovered by law enforcement, as well as suboxone pills and Mauro’s cellphone.

A review of the digital evidence recovered from Mauro’s phone showed that he was aware of how deadly his narcotics were. He told one contact that he was afraid to use it alone, texting, “I have Narcan but I’m alone so I gotta wait and see wut these kids say.” On January 26, 2024, the same day he reassured the victim before her fatal overdose, he had a separate conversation with an unidentified purchaser where Mauro mentioned how potent the drug was after he tried it.

On October 17, 2024, Mauro pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the Second Degree, a Class C felony, and Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, a Class B felony, before County Court Judge Philip Goglas.

On January 28, 2025, Mauro was sentenced to five to fifteen years in prison, which is the maximum sentence allowable under the law, and which will be followed by a period of two years post-release supervision once he is released. He was represented by Matthew Tuohy, Esq.

On February 27, 2025, Carr was found guilty of one count of Assault in the Second Degree, a Class D violent felony, and one count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree, a Class A misdemeanor, after a jury trial heard before Judge Goglas.

Following the verdict, Carr was remanded into custody. He is due back in court for sentencing on March 31, 2025, and faces up to two to seven years in prison. He is being represented by John Campo Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Danielle Davis and Daniel Fischer of the Narcotics Bureau.

A video recording of the incident can be found on DA Tierney’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9di_Xnhr8Mw&t=1s

 

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Suffolk County D.A. Raymond Tierney

Michael Parise Allegedly Burglarized 10 Businesses in Nearly Three Months

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney today announced that Michael Parise, 49, of Selden, was indicted for 10 counts of Burglary in the Third Degree, and related charges, after allegedly breaking into and stealing from 10 small business in Suffolk County, including multiple restaurants, two fitness-related businesses, a hair salon, an animal hospital, and a bagel shop.

“This defendant was arraigned today on multiple felony charges for allegedly going on a nearly three-month crime spree where he systematically burglarized 10 businesses,” said District Attorney Tierney. “We will not stand by while criminals prey on businesses that form the backbone of our local economy and provide services to our residents. Business owners deserve to feel safe when they open for the day and lock up for the night, and we intend to hold those who violate that sense of safety accountable.”

According to the investigation, between November 2024 through February 2025, Parise allegedly burglarized 10 commercial businesses, attempted to burglarize an eleventh, and further allegedly entered an open commercial business during the day where he stole cash. The victimized businesses were located throughout the towns of Smithtown and Brookhaven. To gain entry into the commercial establishments, Parise would allegedly smash the glass door or window.

On December 26, 2024, Parise allegedly broke into Ronald McDonald donation box located at the McDonald’s on 2324 Nesconset Highway in Stony Brook, which was open for business at the time, and made off with $20. In total, Parise allegedly stole approximately $7,413 in cash and a cellphone.

On February 2, 2025, at about 11 a.m., Suffolk County Police arrested Parise in Coram about three miles away from the Peking Chinese Kitchen at 640 Middle Country Road in Selden, after he allegedly attempted to break into the eatery earlier that morning. That particular restaurant is located within a five-minute walk from a Subway restaurant and a Middle Country Animal Hospital that he had allegedly burglarized earlier that same day.

Parise is accused of burglarizing the following commercial business:

  • November 27, 2024 – Subway, 2350 Nesconset Highway, Stony Brook.
  • December 16, 2024 – Ssambap Korean BBQ, 2350 Nesconset Highway, Stony Brook.
  • December 24, 2024 – Orange Theory Fitness, 2306 Nesconset Highway, Stony Brook.
  • December 26, 2024 – Hype Cut and Color Bar Hair Salon, 159 Terry Road, Smithtown.
  • December 26, 2024 – Rebel Kickboxing Gym, 161 Terry Road, Smithtown.
  • December 27, 2024 – Taino’s Cafe and Lounge, 24 Middle Country Road, Coram.
  • January 5, 2025 – Bagel of Stony Brook Cafe, 2310 Nesconset Highway, Stony Brook.
  • January 30, 2025 – Kimochi Bubble Tea, 237 Middle Country Road, Selden.
  • February 2, 2025 – Subway, 672 Middle Country Road, Selden.
  • February 2, 2025 – Middle Country Animal Hospital, 644D Middle Country Road, Selden.

    On February 19, 2025, Parise was arraigned on the indictment before Supreme Court Justice Timothy D. Mazzei, for the following charges contained in the indictment:

  • Ten counts of Burglary in the Third Degree, Class D felonies;
  • One count of Attempted Burglary in the Third Degree, a Class E felony;
  • One count of Petit Larceny; a Class A misdemeanor; and
  • One count of Criminal Mischief; a Class A misdemeanor.

Justice Mazzei ordered Parise held on $100,000 cash, $200,000 bond or $2,000,000 partially secured bond during the pendency of the case. Parise is due back in court on March 20, 2025, and faces 3 1⁄2 to 7 years in prison on each of the top counts of Burglary in the Third Degree, if convicted. He is being represented by the Legal Aid Society.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Carey Ng of the Major Crime Bureau and Assistant District Attorney Ashley Cangro of the East End Bureau. The investigation was conducted by Suffolk County Police Detectives Corey Banfi, Michael Cafarella, Cameron Gee, Alexander Hendrickson, Vashawn Hussein, Solomon Jacobs, Lindsey Kuri, Anthony Parenti, Shaun Sullivan, along with other officers from the Suffolk County Police Department’s Fourth and Sixth Squads.

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Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Feb. 19 that Demario Weston Jr., 22, of Farmingville, was indicted for Robbery in the First Degree in connection with the alleged gun-point robbery of El Queztal Deli in Flanders in September 2024.

Weston and his girlfriend, Tiana MacDonald, 24, of Farmingville, also face several additional charges, including Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child following the execution of a search warrant at the couple’s home.

“The allegations detail a disturbing pattern of criminal conduct that has threatened the safety of our community,” said District Attorney Tierney. “My office remains committed to protecting our local businesses and ridding our streets of both violent offenders and dangerous drugs.”

According to the investigation, on September 23, 2024, shortly before noon, Weston allegedly entered El Quetzal Deli on Flanders Road while masked, wearing a winter coat, and armed with a handgun equipped with a laser sight.

Upon entering the deli, Weston allegedly threatened the clerk and thereafter stole approximately $6,000 from the cash register. He then allegedly pistol-whipped the clerk about her head and body.

On January 8, 2025, after an extensive investigation, authorities executed a search warrant at Weston’s Farmingville apartment. Inside the residence, police found Weston along with MacDonald, and MacDonald’s young child. The search allegedly uncovered a loaded handgun with a blue laser light attached that is believed to have been used in the robbery, as well as additional ammunition, fentanyl, cocaine, digital scales, U.S. currency, and clothing allegedly worn during the robbery.

On Jan. 23, Weston was arraigned on the indictment before Acting Supreme Court Justice Steven A. Pilewski for the following charges contained in the indictment:
  • One count of Robbery in the First Degree, a Class B violent felony;
  • Two counts of Robbery in the Second Degree, Class C violent felonies;
  • One count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, a Class C violent felony;
  • One count of Assault in the Second Degree, a Class D violent felony;
  • Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, Class D violent felonies;
  • Three counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in Third Degree, Class B felonies;
  • One count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree, a Class C felony;
  • One count of Criminal Possession of a Firearm, a Class E felony;
  • One count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a Class A misdemeanor;
  • Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree, a Class A misdemeanor;
  • One count of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia in the Second Degree, a Class A misdemeanor.

    On February 18, 2025, MacDonald was arraigned on the indictment before Justice Pilewski for the following charges contained in the indictment:

  • Three counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in Third Degree, Class B felonies;
  • One count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree, a Class C felony;
  • One count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a Class A misdemeanor; 2
  • Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree, a Class A misdemeanor; and
  • One count of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia in the Second Degree, a Class A misdemeanor.

    Justice Pilewski ordered Weston held on $1,000,000 cash, $2,000,000 bond or $10,000,000 partially secured bond during the pendency of the case. Weston is due back in court on February 26, 2025, and faces 25 years in prison if convicted on the top count. He is being represented by The Legal Aid Society.

    Despite the serious nature of her alleged offenses, MacDonald was released without bail because her charges are considered non-bail eligible under current New York State law, meaning prosecutors cannot ask for, and judges cannot set bail. MacDonald is due back in court on March 11, 2025, and faces 9 years in prison if convicted on the top count. She is being represented by Chase Brown, Esq.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Kristen E. L. Yeamans of the Violent Crime Enterprises Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Police Officer Kesi Goree of the Southampton Town Police Department, Investigator Daniel Crerend of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, and Detective Daniel Hogan of the Riverhead Town Police Department.

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Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office

Matthew Sheehy Was Allegedly Speeding and Impaired by Alcohol and Drugs When He Crashed into a Disabled Motorist on the Shoulder of the Road

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Feb. 19 that Matthew Sheehy, 47, of East Setauket, was indicted for Aggravated Vehicular Assault, Assault in the Second Degree, and other related charges, for allegedly speeding while intoxicated and impaired by drugs, and causing a three-vehicle crash that resulted in injuries to four people.

“This defendant allegedly made the reckless choice to drive while impaired by drugs and alcohol, forever changing the lives of innocent people who were simply trying to get to their destinations that day,” said District Attorney Tierney. “What we see in this case is the devastating cost of impaired driving and we will not tolerate drivers who turn our roadways into danger zones for law- abiding citizens.”

According to the investigation, on November 15, 2024, at approximately 12:21 a.m., Sheehy allegedly drove eastbound on the Long Island Expressway at a high rate of speed in his 2022 Ram pick-up truck, weaving in and out of lanes before he veered into the right shoulder of the expressway near Exits 62 and 63. He ultimately crashed into a disabled 2010 Chrysler Town and Country minivan that was parked on the shoulder that had one occupant inside.

The Chrysler was propelled into the expressway’s HOV lane, came to a stop, and was then struck by a third vehicle, a 2018 Honda CRV, which had three occupants inside. One passenger in the CRV sustained serious injuries from the crash, including the loss of her eyesight in one eye, brain bleeding and a skull fracture. The two other occupants inside the CRV and the occupant inside the Chrysler sustained various other injuries that required medical treatment at local hospitals.

Sheehy was later taken to the hospital where he was placed under arrest after it was determined that Sheehy was allegedly intoxicated by alcohol and impaired by drugs.

On February 19, 2025, Sheehy was arraigned on the indictment before Acting Supreme Court Justice Philip Goglas, for the following charges:

  • One count of Aggravated Vehicular Assault, a Class C felony;
  • One count of Assault in the Second Degree, a Class D felony;
  • One count of Vehicular Assault in the First Degree, a Class D felony;
  • One count of Vehicular Assault in the Second Degree, a Class E felony;
  • Two counts of Driving While Intoxicated, Class E felonies;
  • Two Counts of Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, Class E felonies;
  • One Count of Driving While Ability Impaired by the Combined Influence of Drugs

    or of Alcohol and any Drug or Drugs, a Class E felony;

  • Three counts of Assault in the Third Degree, Class A misdemeanors;
  • One count of Reckless Endangerment in the Second Degree, a Class A misdemeanor;
  • One count of Reckless Driving, an Unclassified misdemeanor;
  • One count of Moving from Lane Unsafely, a traffic infraction;
  • One count of Speeding, a traffic infraction;
  • One count of Driving on Shoulder, a traffic infraction; and
  • One count of Failing to Move Over, a traffic infraction

Justice Goglas ordered Sheehy held on $100,000 cash, $200,000 bond or $1 million partially secured bond. Sheehy is due back in court on March 12, 2025, and faces 5 to 15 years in prison if convicted on the top count. He is being represented by Michael Brown, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Jeffrey Rosenheck of the Vehicular Crime Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective Joseph Bianco of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Major Case Unit.

 

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From left, Dwayne Jones and Randy Woods. Photo from Suffolk D.A.'s office

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Feb. 18 that Dwayne Jones, 46, of Central Islip, was sentenced to four to eight years in prison after he and his co-defendant, Randy Woods, 38, of Wyandanch, pleaded guilty for stealing tires and rims from 114 vehicles during the course of more than a year.

“The successful arrest, conviction and sentencing of these two defendants underscores our commitment to combating theft and property crimes in Suffolk County,” said District Attorney Tierney. “This case also showcases the extensive collaboration and significant resources that are brought to bear on pattern crimes. We are grateful for the specialized investigative support from the Suffolk County Police Department and National Insurance Crime Bureau.”

“The National Insurance Crime Bureau would like to express our appreciation to the staff of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office and the investigators who tirelessly participated in this investigation. We are pleased that NICB had the opportunity to provide support,” said Kevin Gallagher, Regional Director of the Northeast Region of the National Insurance Crime Bureau. “Individuals who prey on consumers by stealing tires and rims from vehicles, not only cause financial loss, but disrupt every aspect of the consumer’s lives. The sentences imposed on these individuals demonstrate the commitment by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office to address these crimes and illuminate the consequences to those who would contemplate participating in this nefarious activity.”

According to the investigation, between July 1, 2022, and October 20, 2023, Woods and Jones targeted residents, car dealerships, and rental car companies across Suffolk County to steal tires and rims from several vehicles, with preference to vehicles from Honda, Toyota, Mercedes Benz, BMW, and black rims from SUVs.

On July 26, 2024, Woods pleaded guilty before Supreme Court Justice John B. Collins to one count of Auto Stripping in the First Degree, a Class D felony, and one count of Auto Stripping in the Second Degree, a Class E felony. Woods also pleaded guilty to one count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, a Class D felony, in an unrelated case.

On October 11, 2024, Woods was sentenced to a combined indeterminate sentence of five to 10 years with restitution judgement orders for the victims totaling $193,468.25. Woods was represented by Christopher Gioe, Esq.

On January 9, 2025, Jones pleaded guilty before Supreme Court Justice John B. Collins to two counts of Auto Stripping in the First Degree, Class D felonies.

On February 13, 2025, Jones was sentenced to a combined indeterminate sentence of four to eight years with restitution judgement orders for the victims totaling $193,468.19. Jones was represented by John Loturco, Esq.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys James Bartens and Blythe Miller of the Financial Crimes Bureau, with assistance from Detective Michael Lavella of the Property Auto Crime Unit of the Suffolk County Police Department, Detective Michael Filippazzo of the Gun Crime Reduction Unit of the Suffolk County Police Department, and Research Technician Emily Kiersnowski of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. Specialized assistance was also received from the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

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Philip Walker
Philip Walker Faces 20 Years in Prison

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Feb. 18 that Philip Walker, 58, of Mastic, pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree, for stabbing his housemate, 63-year-old Jimmy Vaughn, three times with a knife. During the attack, Walker fatally pierced the victim’s heart.

“This conviction ensures accountability for a senseless act of violence that claimed a life,” said District Attorney Tierney. “While no sentence can bring the victim back to his friends and family, I hope that they can find some solace knowing that his killer was held criminally responsible for his actions.”

According to court documents and the defendant’s admissions during his guilty plea allocution, on

June 30, 2023, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Walker fatally stabbed the victim inside a room at the Shirley Motel on Montauk Highway. When paramedics arrived, Vaughn was found outside of room, bleeding from the left side of his chest and abdomen. Vaughn was taken to Long Island Community Hospital, where doctors tried but failed to repair the hole in his heart. He was pronounced dead at approximately 6:20 p.m.

Walker fled from the motel after the incident, but Suffolk County Police officers arrested him on July 2, 2023, at a family member’s home in North Amityville.

On February 14,  Walker pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree, a Class B violent felony, before Acting Supreme Court Justice Karen M. Wilutis. Walker is expected to be sentenced to 20 years in prison. He is due back in court on March 25, 2025, and is being represented by Eric Besso, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Dena Rizopoulos of the Homicide Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective David Gelsomino of Suffolk County Police Department’s Homicide Squad.

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Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Feb. 18 that Brianna Hassett, 33, of Wading River, was arrested last week and charged with Bribe Receiving in the Third Degree, and related charges, for allegedly accepting bribes and falsifying paperwork for a license application through her employment at the Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs.

“The allegations in this case represent a shocking violation of the public trust, as this defendant is accused of placing her own greed ahead of her duty as a public servant,” said District Attorney Tierney. “My office will not tolerate corruption in any government agency or department.”

“Thousands of county employees work hard every day to serve the public with the highest of integrity. When someone is found to have violated the trust of the public and their colleagues, my administration will not hesitate to work with the District Attorney to have them prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said County Executive Ed Romaine. “I want to thank the District Attorney and our law enforcement for their swift action. I have directed our Department of Labor to undertake an extensive review of this employee’s work to ensure all permits filed are complete, accurate and meet all legal requirements.”

According to the investigation, in late January of 2025, Hassett was working as an office assistant in the licensing unit of the Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs when, acting in concert with another individual, she allegedly accepted a bribe and falsified an application for a Home Improvement license.

In exchange for a cash bribe, Hassett is alleged to have provided questions and answers to the proficiency examination which needs to be passed for Suffolk County to issue a vocational license.

Hassett also allegedly falsified insurance information on a license application in exchange for a second cash bribe. Hassett engaged in these criminal acts while acting in concert with Esteban Bermudez, 35, of Hampton Bays, who is not a Suffolk County employee. Hassett and Bermudez were both arrested on February 13, 2025.

On February 14, 2025, Hassett was arraigned before Acting County Court Judge Edward J. Hennessey for the following charges:

  • Two counts of Bribe Receiving in the Third Degree, Class D felonies;
  • One count of Falsifying Business Records in the First Degree, a Class E felony;
  • One count of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree, a Class E felony;

    and

  • One count of Official Misconduct, a Class A misdemeanor.

Judge Hennessey ordered Hassett to be monitored by the Department of Probation’s Pre-Trial Supervision unit during the pendency of the case. Hassett was released from jail without bail because her charges are considered non-bail eligible under current New York State law, meaning prosecutors cannot ask for, and judges cannot set, bail.

Hassett is due back in court on March 12, 2025, and faces 3 1⁄2 to 7 years in prison if convicted on the top count. She is being represented by Brian Trodden, Esq.

Bermudez was issued a desk appearance ticket, and his arraignment date is March 5, 2025. Bermudez faces 1 1/3 to 4 years in prison if convicted on the top count.

If you believe you have been victimized by Brianna Hassett, please call the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office at (631) 853-4626.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney James J. O’Rourke, IV, Deputy Bureau Chief Laura de Oliveira, and Bureau Chief Kevin Ward of the Public Corruption Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Suffolk County Deputy Sheriff Investigator Matthew Matz, assigned to the District Attorney’s Public Corruption Squad

 

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