An Astoria man stands indicted on multiple charges after he allegedly vandalized a religious statue and assaulted parishioners at the local Immaculate Conception Church. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz reported that Jose Rodriguez, 38, faces accusations including burglary, attempted assault, and hate crime-related offenses.
According to the statement by the Queens District Attorney's Office, the series of incidents began on April 6, when Rodriguez allegedly knocked over and broke a statue of the baby Jesus at the church and made a threat toward a priest. The disturbances reportedly continued three days later, when Rodriguez returned, trespassed behind the altar, and carried out an act involving glass that nearly injured a parishioner who was praying.
In a court arraignment following the indictment, Rodriguez has been charged with burglary in the third degree, attempted assault in the second degree, criminal mischief, and three counts of aggravated harassment as a hate crime. If convicted of the top count, he could face up to seven years in prison. Supreme Court Judge Toni Cimino set the return court date for June 6.
This case is prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Melissa Beach, with an overall supervision by Executive Assistant District Attorney for the Major Crimes Shawn Clark. The NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force and the 114th Precinct were commended by Katz for their fast response and apprehension of Rodriguez.
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