Court Appearance for Bronx Attack Suspect
A Bronx courtroom was crowded with New York police officers on Wednesday as they witnessed the arraignment of Taveon Hargrove, a 22-year-old accused of violently attacking Officer Chowdhury Nafees. The incident, which was captured on video, took place on May 24 in Westchester Square.
Hargrove faces serious charges, including robbery, assault, and attempted murder, after he and an accomplice, Wayne Lucas, allegedly ambushed Nafees early in the morning. The officer was left severely injured, and according to reports, a week later there was still a shoe print visible on his face.
Assistant District Attorney Paul Elis shared details during the court proceedings, noting that Lucas had a knife and they stole various items from the officer, including his department-issued cell phone and a loaded weapon.
Following the attack, Hargrove fled to Virginia and was discovered hiding in a garage belonging to a family member.
Nafees, who was on duty at the time of the assault, identified himself as a police officer but was overpowered and injured badly in the process.
Patrick Hendry, president of the NYPD Police Charity Association, spoke outside the courtroom, emphasizing the brutality of the attack. “This wasn’t just a robbery,” he remarked. “They recognized him as a police officer and brutally assaulted him.”
In court, Hargrove appeared anxious, wearing a worn white T-shirt, as dozens of police officers looked on. He had visible injuries, including three significant wounds on his neck.
Hendry stated that Nafees sustained multiple fractures, including two to his eye sockets, and continues to experience dizziness a month after the attack. “Given the seriousness of the injury and the strength of the people’s case, he’ll be remanded,” the judge announced.
Lucas, who faces similar charges, is also being held without bail at Rikers Island. Both defendants are expected back in court on September 12.
Hendry affirmed that the police department stands united in support of their injured officer, expressing commitment to ensuring that Hargrove and his accomplices face justice for their actions.
