August 10, 2001

Contact: Geoff Ryan (718/595-6600)

DEP Police Arrest Kensico Reservoir Angler

Commissioner Joel A. Miele Sr., P.E., of the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced today that DEP Police have arrested an angler at the City's Kensico Reservoir on charges of reckless endangerment and criminal possession of a weapon.

On Thursday, August 9, members of a waterfowl management crew patrolling the Kensico Reservoir reported to DEP Police that an angler in a rowboat had exchanged words with them and fired a weapon at close range. No injuries were reported. The event took place at approximately 2:30 p.m., and DEP Police began an immediate investigation. The alleged perpetrator was identified as Doy Hagwood of 10 North Fulton Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY.

At approximately 9:00 a.m. on Friday, August 10, DEP Police arrested Mr. Hagwood outside his home. The arrest was without incident. He was in possession of a .380 caliber automatic handgun.

Mr. Hagwood, 60 years old, has no prior arrest record. DEP Police filed charges of criminal possession of a weapon and reckless endangerment from the August 9th incident and a second charge of criminal possession of a weapon from the August 10th arrest. Additional charges may be forthcoming.

Commissioner Miele said, "Mr. Hagwood's alleged actions are outrageous, and we will prosecute to the full extent of the law. It goes without saying, that his permit to fish at the Kensico Reservoir has been revoked. Under no circumstances can we allow anglers at our reservoirs to threaten or endanger the wellbeing of our staff or contractors."