Smithtown man accused of strangling, stabbing family member’s face with scissors in brutal home break-in
The Suffolk County District Attorney says the incident began when Daniel Spector kicked open the front door of the victim’s St. James home on May 28, violating a court-issued order of protection.
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A Smithtown man accused of stabbing a family member during a violent home break-in was indicted for attempted murder and several other charges on Thursday.
The Suffolk County District Attorney says Daniel Spector, 42, kicked open the front door of the victim’s St. James home on May 28, violating a court-issued order of protection.
They allege he made threats and forced his way into the bedroom while the victim attempted to barricade themself inside.
He used a broom with a sharp metal object attached as a makeshift weapon to stab the victim repeatedly, according to the District Attorney.
Spector is also accused of threatening to kill the victim and harm the victim’s child, who was hiding inside the closet of a nearby room during the attack.
Authorities say he went on to grab a pair of scissors, stab the victim in the face, strangle the victim and drag them into another room. From there, he allegedly pressed his shin against their neck until they lost consciousness.
The District Attorney says the victim’s mother intervened when he began dragging them toward the staircase in an apparent attempt to throw them down the stairs.
Spector fled the scene and the victim’s mother called 911. He was apprehended by Suffolk police officers a few blocks away from the home.
The victim sustained wounds to their chest, arms and legs. They were taken to Stony Brook University Hospital for treatment.
In addition to attempted murder, Spector is charged with burglary, attempted assault, assault, strangulation, aggravated criminal contempt, criminal contempt, criminal possession of a weapon and endangering the welfare of a child.
He is due back in court on July 14 and faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted of the top count.
