At approximately 7 p.m. on Friday, April 19, authorities were called to Maxwell Street in East Rockaway in response to a reported disturbance.
After having a conversation with 25-year-old Robert Battaglia outside his residence, Nassau County Police discovered that he had neglected to properly secure his pit bull when he reentered his home.
As the officer arrived at the residence, a dog swiftly dashed out and lunged at him, sinking its teeth into his right leg.
In order to defend himself, the officer fired two shots from his service weapon at the dog, and both shots hit the ground.
According to the police, Battaglia and his roommate, Stephen Seal, age 34, were both yelling at the officer as he responded to his marked patrol vehicle.
According to the police, Battaglia got into the patrol vehicle after opening the passenger door, initiating a physical altercation with the officer.
According to the police, Battaglia tried to take equipment from the patrol cruiser during the altercation.
During the altercation, the officer suffered an injury to his right shoulder.
Officers took control of the situation and proceeded to arrest Battaglia and Seal.
Police said that Seal was responsible for criminal mischief that took place at East Rockaway Village Hall on Tuesday, August 22, 2023.
