A man from Long Island is facing serious charges after allegedly throwing sulfuric acid at his girlfriend, resulting in severe injuries. This incident occurred during an argument at his home in Wyandanch on November 16, as reported by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.
Douglas Graves, 42, reportedly used a bottle containing bleach and acid, which quickly corroded the woman’s clothing and caused her skin to burn as she screamed in agony. By the time officers arrived, her clothes had completely disintegrated, leaving her with critical burns on her face and torso.
“It’s hard to comprehend such brutality,” remarked Suffolk County Attorney Ray Tierney. He emphasized the need for protection for victims of domestic abuse, stating that violence against partners cannot go unpunished.
The victim was quickly taken to Nassau University Medical Center, where her condition deteriorated for nearly a week despite efforts to neutralize the acid. She now faces the prospect of reconstructive surgery to address the damage done to her skin.
Allegedly, Graves often carried a mixture of acid for “personal protection.” After the attack, he fled the scene, but authorities apprehended him later that same morning.
After his arrest, Graves reportedly tried to interfere with the investigation. According to prosecutors, between November 20 and November 24, he made multiple calls to two female coworkers, seeking assistance in dissuading his girlfriend from testifying against him, and even tried to reach her in the hospital.
He is charged with a number of offenses, including multiple counts of assault, weapon possession, witness tampering, and criminal contempt. A judge has set his bail at either $150,000 in cash, $500,000, or $1 million partially secured. Graves has pleaded not guilty and faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted on the most serious charge.
