SEAFORD, NY – A Seaford resident was arrested early Friday morning after allegedly assaulting a Lyft driver with a baseball bat during a dispute, according to Nassau County Police.
Officers from the Seventh Precinct responded to a disturbance on Sidney Court around 3:45 a.m. on May 30. Upon arrival, they found a 41-year-old male Lyft driver who reported that he had engaged in a verbal altercation with James Turchi, 46, of Mill Road, in Seaford. The confrontation escalated when Turchi allegedly knocked the victim’s phone from his hand, causing damage, and then struck him multiple times in the head and knee with a baseball bat. Despite sustaining injuries, the victim declined medical attention at the scene.
Turchi was arrested without incident and charged with second-degree assault, third-degree criminal mischief, and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He is scheduled for arraignment at First District Court in Hempstead.
The incident highlights concerns over the safety of rideshare drivers, who often encounter unpredictable situations during late-night hours. Authorities have not disclosed further details regarding the motive behind the attack or whether the individuals were acquainted prior to the incident.
If convicted on all charges, Turchi faces up to seven years in state prison for the most serious charge, second-degree assault, a Class D violent felony. He could also receive additional time for criminal mischief and criminal possession of a weapon, though sentences may run concurrently. The final sentence will depend on factors such as plea deals, his criminal history, and the severity of the victim’s injuries. For a first-time offender, a sentence of two to four years in prison is common, but prosecutors could seek the maximum penalty given the violent nature of the attack.
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Nassau County Police Department.
