Staffer At Beleaguered Autism Center Accused Of Putting Resident in 'Chokehold,' Cops Say

RHINEBECK, NY — An autism center in the Hudson Valley is again making headlines for all the wrong reasons.

On Aug. 19, the New York State Police in Rhinebeck responded to the Anderson Center for Autism, located in the Town of Hyde Park, after a report of an incident involving a staff member and a resident.

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The staff member, identified as 21-year-old Rojae Omario Rhone, of Poughkeepsie, reportedly placed a 21-year-old resident, who was under his care, in a chokehold, according to investigators.

"Staff intervened immediately when the incident occurred," an Anderson Center for Autism said in a statement. "Upon learning of the incident, leadership immediately placed the employee on leave, reported it to law enforcement and the Justice Center and is fully cooperating with the investigation. The safety and well-being of the individuals we serve are our highest priorities. We take matters such as these very seriously and remain committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for our community."

Rhone was arrested on Monday, and charged with felony endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person, and criminal obstruction of breathing.

He was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Hyde Park Court on Sept. 2.

This story was updated to include a statement from the Anderson Center for Autism.