GRAND JURY INDICTS 26-YEAR-OLD BRONX MAN FOR THE ATTEMPTED MURDER OF AN OFF DUTY NEW YORK CITY POLICE OFFICER

Bronx District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced today that a man who allegedly shot and wounded an off duty New York City Police Officer has been indicted for attempted murder and other crimes.

A grand jury has charged Michael Williams, 26, of 710 East 235th Street, the Bronx, with Attempted Murder in the 2nd degree, Attempted Assault in the 1st degree, Assault in the 2nd degree, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 2nd and 4th degrees. Williams is to be arraigned on the indictment on Monday, July 28, 2008 in State Supreme Court, Part A. He is facing a maximum sentence of up to 25 years imprisonment if convicted of the most serious offense, Attempted Murder in the 2nd degree.

The shooting occurred on Friday, May 9, 2008 in front of 719 East 233rd Street in the Williamsbridge section of the Bronx. It is alleged that Williams fired multiple rounds from a 9MM automatic pistol at Antwane Reeves who was walking his dog. Reeves drew the handgun that he carries when off duty and returned his alleged assailant’s fire. During the exchange of gunshots, a bullet grazed the off duty officer’s head, leaving a 4 to 6-inch gash on top of his scalp. Reeves also sustained an injury to his left hand which was caused by his dog which pulled on its leash during the attack.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Edward Friedenthal, Counsel to the Gang Prosecution / Major Case Bureau.