Armonk Man Who Was Shot By Cop, Pleads Guilty To Attempted Assault Of Police Officer: DA

ARMONK, NY — A Westchester man who was facing attempted murder charges related to a violent attack on police officers has reached a plea deal.

Westchester County District Attorney Susan Cacace announced on Thursday that 39-year-old Joseph Spennato, of Armonk, has pleaded guilty in Westchester County Court to felony attempted aggravated assault upon a police officer.

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His sentencing is scheduled for May 20. Spennato is facing 11 years in state prison along with five years post-release supervision.

SEE ALSO:

• Grand Jury Indicts Armonk Man For Attempted Murder Of Police Sergeant
• Armonk 38-Year-Old Charged With Attempted Murder Of Police Officer
• Police Shoot Man At Armonk Home After He Attacks Cop With Knife: NCPD

On May 20, 2024, around 12:30 p.m., two North Castle police officers responded to a 911 emergency call on Hallock Place in Armonk for a 78-year-old woman who needed medical care. Once at the scene, officers became aware that Spennato, who had two outstanding bench warrants in North Castle Town Court, was also in the home.

When officers tried to arrest Spennato, however, he used a knife attempting to stab Sgt. William McClure multiple times in the back, striking the sergeant's ballistic vest, before Police Officer Chris Costa used his duty pistol to fire two shots, striking Spennato twice, according to the officers. The incident was captured on police-worn body cameras.

Spennato and both officers were taken to area hospitals for treatment and evaluation. The officers were uninjured.

Spennato was arrested in the hospital on May 28.

"This case serves as a stark reminder of the extreme dangers our police officers face daily, regardless of which community they serve," Cacace said. "The responding officers were sent to what would seem to be an innocuous call when they were suddenly faced with a life-or-death situation. I am thankful that the officers survived the encounter and that the suspect is being held accountable for his actions."

The case was investigated by the North Castle Police Department and the Westchester County Department of Public Safety. The case was prosecuted by Trial Division Bureau Chief Jonathan Strongin and ADA Alex Shapiro. Rye Bureau Chief Cindy Adimari also assisted.