An Island Park man was arrested after police said he assaulted a 62-year-old man during a domestic dispute before four officers were exposed to an unknown substance during the investigation.
According to Nassau County police, officers responded to a residence in Island Park at about 4:05 p.m. Saturday, May 9, for a disturbance call.
Detectives said Michael R. Leonetti, 29, got into a verbal argument with the victim that escalated into violence. Police allege Leonetti pushed the man to the floor and punched him in the head, causing substantial pain.
Authorities said the victim feared for his safety and told Leonetti he was calling police. Investigators allege Leonetti then grabbed the victim’s phone and hurled it against a wall to prevent him from contacting authorities. Police said the impact damaged the phone and left a hole in the wall.
During the investigation, detectives said Leonetti was found in possession of a pill bottle containing an unknown substance.
Four responding officers and Leonetti were taken to a local hospital after being exposed to the substance, police said. Authorities have not released additional details about the material or the extent of any injuries.
Leonetti was charged with third-degree assault, third-degree menacing, fourth-degree criminal mischief, and third-degree criminal mischief.
Police said he will be arraigned when medically practical.
