The criminals vision of Christmas

Police: Man, Woman Assault Blind Salvation Army Bell Ringer At White Plains Restaurant

December 22, 2015 12:07 PM

Juan Rodriguez and Audrianna Wignal (credit: Greenburgh Police)2

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) — Two people have been arrested after police said they assaulted a Salvation Army bell ringer at a restaurant in White Plains.

It happened at 3 p.m. Saturday at the Smashburger on Tarrytown Road.

Police said the 41-year-old bell ringer, who is legally blind, was on his break and standing in line with 30-year-old Juan Rodriguez and 21-year-old Audrianna Wignal when Rodriguez accused the victim of cutting the line.

That’s when police said Rodriguez punched the victim, knocking him to the ground. He then straddled the victim and continued to hit him in the head while Wignal kicked him, police said.

Rodriguez then threw the Salvation Army Kettle at the man, hitting him in the head, police said.

Police arrested Rodriguez and Wignal at the scene on assault charges, authorities said. The victim was taken to White Plains Hospital where police said he was treated for head and facial injuries.

Both suspects were arraigned Sunday.

After they posted bail, Rodriguez was arrested again Monday on an upgraded assault charge, police said. He is being held pending arraignment.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.