Man charged with attacking cops with his dog

NEWBURGH – Three Town of Newburgh police officers were injured when a man fought with them as he turned his dog on them as well, town police said.

Police charged John Richichi, 43, with attempted murder and other charges.
The officers had responded to an address on Frozen Ridge Road at 10:20 p.m. Sunday night for a reported domestic incident.

Officers Desaye, Karabelas and Lawson began to speak with the victim, who had fled her home, but returned to talk with the officers.

As they were talking with her, Richichi approached with his canine. The dog jumped on one of the officers and Richichi was told to control the animal but refused.

When he was told again, police said he became combative, began to fight with the officers and commanded is dog to assist him in attacking them.

Richichi was finally subdued and arrested. The dog was confiscated by the Town of Newburgh Animal Control Department.
Officer Henry Lawson and Richichi were transported to St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Newburgh campus for treatment. Richichi was released and processed by the police. Lawson was admitted for treatment.

Richichi was charged with attempted murder in the second degree, unlawful imprisonment, assault on a police officer, reckless endangerment in the second degree and resisting arrest.

The investigation is continuing.