Nassau County PD event in VSP Friday

Dear Residents,

In order to provide clear information, I would like to inform you of an incident that took place Friday morning on the edge of the Village, about which some residents have inquired.

Early yesterday morning an individual (“Complainant”) called Nassau County PD for assistance when he was allegedly being tailgated, honked at, and had “items” thrown at his vehicle by a Subject.  According to the NCPD, based on the interactions they witnessed at the scene, the Subject may have been motivated by the belief the Complainant was an ICE agent.

As it has been reported to us by NCPD, three NCPD patrol cars responded, followed the Subject’s and Complainant’s vehicles, and witnessed the alleged behavior.  The vehicles were primarily in Manorhaven but then entered Sands Point via Cornwall Ln.  The NCPD pulled the Subject's vehicle over on Barkers Point Rd, near Sands Point Rd.  During the car stop, the Subject apparently called others to come to the scene, and some did.

As these others were beginning to arrive, the NCPD called the SPPD “requesting assistance with traffic control”.  SPPD officers arrived immediately and kept traffic moving.  They did not allow anyone to park on Village roads, which is a violation of Village code (except by special permit).  The drivers were permitted to allow passengers to disembark on foot.  Our officers report about a half-dozen people were on foot recording the interaction between NCPD and the Subject.  

We understand that NCPD’s subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of the Subject and the impoundment of his vehicle.

Our officers did not speak with, interview, or interact in any way with either the Subject or the Complainant.  Because of our role as traffic enforcement only, we do not know any underlying details, including the names of those involved, any agencies they may work for, or groups with which they may be affiliated. We also do not know what charges were brought against the Subject and why.  

The position of the Sands Point Police Department, as per Chief Ruehle, is it will not be initiating or requesting any ICE activities or investigations.  Nevertheless, the SPPDwill assist any other law enforcement agency (or any individual for that matter), if requested, in a public safety role.   

As always, the SPPD’s priority is the safety of all in our Village, and we want anyone and everyone to feel comfortable asking our SPPD for assistance.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees,

Mayor Peter A. Forman