Felony Assault Charges in the Subway Dismissed (Manhattan)

2017

Lance's Client was walking through a crowded subway train during rush hour and got into an argument with another passenger who accused our client of bumping into them. Our client allegedly assaulted this other passenger and, due to the severity of the attack, was charged with felony assault. Because it was a crowded train, there were numerous witnesses. This case was covered in the media and the district attorney was under considerable pressure to bring it to trial so they could recommend a possible state prison sentence. Our investigation into the complainant and nature of the alleged injury raised important issues about whether the complainant was actually injured and whether the account they provided to the NYPD was accurate. We were able to negotiate around a prison sentence and obtained a disposition to a misdemeanor for attempted assault.