Overview
- Police identified the suspect as Jeffery Vernot, 36, of Wheatley Heights, charging him with third-degree assault and endangering the welfare of a child.
- The confrontation broke out Jan. 8 at Half Hollow Hills West with 44 seconds left and a 63-52 score, and video shows a man emerging from the crowd to strike a Comsewogue player from behind.
- Vernot received an appearance ticket, and his first court date is set for Jan. 30, as the investigation continues.
- Section XI’s Tom Combs said players who fought or left the bench will receive two-game suspensions, with schools free to impose tougher penalties.
- Comsewogue confirmed the injured player is a 15-year-old team member, and Half Hollow Hills’ superintendent said the district is cooperating with police and reviewing preventive steps.