Retired NYPD Sergeant Crashes Into Police Car, Officer Hurt: PD

LONG BEACH, NY — A man was stopped by police early Wednesday, accused of speeding and driving recklessly.

Robert Garrity, 52, was observed crossing the center median at West Park Avenue between Laurelton and Magnolia Boulevards, striking two trees, police said.

Garrity's vehicle kept speeding on West Park Avenue, ultimately crashing into a Long Beach police vehicle, which was stopped at a red light, and a fire hydrant, detectives said.

A police officer was injured in the collision. He was treated at an area hospital and released.

Officers detected a strong odor from alcohol and slurred speech. An empty 24-ounce can of beer was recovered from under the driver's seat, police said.

Garrity was charged with driving while intoxicated, assault, reckless endangerment and reckless driving, according to a news release from the police department.

Garrity, a retired NYPD sergeant, was arraigned and released on his own recognizance.