Seaford Man Charged with Striking Police Officer

Nassau County detectives have charged a Seaford man for allegedly striking a police officer with his first while being questioned for a larceny of a local 7-Eleven store.

According to detectives, police responded just before 3 a.m. Tuesday to the 7-Eleven store at 3615 Merrick Rd., Seaford for a larceny that had just occurred. A description of the subject who had left the scene was broadcasted and responding officers conducted a canvass of the area.

A Nassau County Seventh Precinct police officer observed the defendant who fit the description, 23-year old Joseph Larocca, on Hillarie Way in Seaford, and went to question him. Larocca proceeded to strike the officer in the head with a closed fist and a struggle ensued with the defendant eventually placed into custody, according to detectives.

The officer was removed to a local hospital where he was treated and released for contusions to his left elbow, wrist and hip. Larocca was also removed to a local hospital with minor injuries.

Larocca is charged with second-degree assault, petit larceny and resisting arrest. Detectives said he will be arraigned as soon as practical.