1 Biker Charged, 1 Released in Road Rage Attack
A biker suspected in a road rage assault will not be charged by the Manhattan DA's office.
According to the New York Post, Allen Edwards, a biker from Queens, was one of the riders who allegedly punched in the rear driver's side window on the assaulted man's SUV. Edwards turned himself in to the police on Tuesday.
Why did the DA decline to pursue charges against Edwards?
Charges for Biker Assault
The 33-year-old driver of the SUV, Alexian Lien, was involved in a harrowing conflict with a group of bikers on Sunday -- a chain of events that ended with Lien being pulled out of his vehicle and beaten.
Lien's attackers left him with two black eyes and injuries to his face and chest, and on Monday morning the New York Police Department (NYPD) had not made any arrests.
But by Tuesday, the NYPD had Edwards and Christopher Cruz, a New Jersey biker, in custody. The New York Times reported Tuesday that both men had been charged with reckless endangerment and menacing in connection with the road rage attack.
However, the Post and NBC News now report that prosecutors will not bring charges against Edwards, possibly because "there is no indication that Edwards, 42, participated in the assault," despite the notorious video footage showing Edwards bashing in Lien's window with his fist.
Police are still searching for Lien's actual attackers, but according to the Post, Cruz is still charged with reckless driving and endangering the welfare of a child.
Prosecutors Have Discretion With Charges
Although it is often a courtesy to ask victims whether they want to press charges, ultimately, the decision to charge a suspect lies with the prosecutor.
There are many reasons why prosecutors might choose to drop charges or refuse to pursue charges against a suspect like Edwards, and it may be that the Manhattan DA felt resources were better spent prosecuting the attackers who pummeled and slashed Lien.
NBC News reports that charges have still not been brought against Lien for allegedly running over Edwin "Jay" Mieses, 33, who is currently in critical condition with a crushed spine.
Related Resources:
- Supporters rally around biker hurt in NYC dustup (USA Today)
- Ricin Suspect Released; Charges Dropped (FindLaw's Blotter)
- Charges Dropped Against Blagojevich Brother (FindLaw's Blotter)
- What Happens When You're Charged with a Crime (FindLaw)
