CARNEGIE SLAY SUSPECT ARRESTED FOR THE ASSAULT OF A RIKER’S ISLAND CORRECTION OFFICER

Bronx District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced today that Joseph Sean Salley, a suspect currently on trial in Manhattan Supreme Court in connection with the Carnegie Deli triple slaying, has been arrested and charged with the assault of Riker’s Island Correction Officer Vincent Donovan.

Arraigned before Bronx Criminal Court Judge Michael R. Sonberg, Salley, 30, of Riker’s Island, has been charged with 2 counts of Assault in the 2nd degree, a class "D" felony offense, 1 count of Assault in the 3rd degree, 1 count of Obstructing Governmental Administration in the 2nd degree, and 1 count of Harassment in the 2nd degree. Judge Sonberg set bail at $15,000 bond, $5,000 cash. If convicted of the most serious charge, Salley faces a maximum term of up to 7 years imprisonment.

The incident occurred last Tuesday after Donovan escorted the defendant to the sink area to shave. It is alleged that Salley punched Donovan in the face, causing him to fall backward striking his head against the bars of a jail cell. Donovan received approximately 8 staples to close the wound.

Assistant District Attorney Ginger James is prosecuting this case.