Two Friends Subdue Attempted Robber Until Nassau Police Arrive

A Uniondale man was arrested Thursday afternoon after police say he attacked another man, seemingly without provocation.

According to police, a 28-year-old man was walking on Uniondale Avenue at 1:10 p.m., talking on the phone with his friend, when he was approached from behind by Benjamin Francis, 29, of Argyle Avenue. Police say that Francis hit the man in the back of the head and tackled him to the ground.

The man, believing that Francis was trying to steal his phone, fought back, police say, and a struggle ensued. The man's friend heard the commotion over the phone and, being nearby, ran over to help. Police say Francis punched both men in the face, but they were then able to gain control and hold him until police arrived and arrested him. All three men were taken to a hospital for treatment of their injuries.

Francis was charged with third-degree attempted robbery, two counts of third-degree assault and second-degree criminal mischief. He is scheduled to be arraigned in First District Court in Hempstead on Dec. 21.

Photo courtesy Nassau County Police Department