Crime & Safety
Student Detained in Purchase College Hate Crime Incidents
An 18-year-old student alleged to have painted swastikas on dorm walls is due in Harrison Town Court Monday.
University police have charged a student in connection with hate-crime incidents at SUNY Purchase: graffitti, including swastikas and nooses, painted on the walls of three dorms in the past week.
Accused is 18-year-old Raymond Turchioe, of Manhattan.
According to the Purchase Phoenix, he was arrested Thursday night, charged with first-degree felony aggravated harassment, and is being held in Westchester County jail with bail set at $15,000 or a bond of $25,000.
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He is due back in Harrison Town Court March 31.
University police said students were essential in solving the case, the Phoenix reported.
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“These crimes are reprehensible,” said college President Thomas Schwartz in a statement.
The noose drawings are still under investigation; according to the Phoenix, university police don’t think they are connected to this case.
PHOTO: screenshot of Turchioe’s photo/SUNY police via Purchase Phoenix
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