23-Year-Old Punches, Robs Taxi Driver Outside Long Island Hospital, Police Say

A 23-year-old man is accused of attacking and robbing a taxi driver outside a Long Island hospital.

James Ely, age 23, is accused of assaulting a taxi driver outside Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow early Thursday, Sept. 19.
Photo Credit: *Nassau County Police Department // Google Maps street view*

09/19/2024 5:15 p.m.

The incident happened in East Meadow, steps from Nassau University Medical Center on Hempstead Turnpike, at around 3:15 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 19.

Nassau County Police said the 72-year-old male victim was working as a driver for Hub Taxi when he was called to pick up a customer outside the hospital.

When he arrived, he informed the man, 23-year-old James Ely, how much the fare would be and told him payment was required up front.

Ely reportedly became irate, causing the driver to exit the vehicle. He then followed the man, poured an unknown liquid on him, punched him in the head and chest, and stole his cell phone, according to police.

Third Precinct officers located Ely, of Baldwin, a short time later hiding behind a nearby business. He was arrested on suspicion of third-degree robbery.

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