Office of the District Attorney

P. David Soares
6 Lodge Street
Albany, New York 12207
(518) 487-5460
(518) 487-5093 FAX

ALBANY, NY –District Attorney P. David Soares today announced the indictment of MALCOLM STOKES from the Special Victim’s Unit within the Office of the District Attorney.
 
MALCOLM J. STOKES, 18, of 29 Morris Street, Albany, NY on two (2) counts of Assault in the First Degree, a class “B” felony,  three (3) counts of Assault in the Second Degree, a class “D” Felony and endangering the welfare of a child.
 
The STOKES Indictment alleges that on July 3rd, 2006, STOKES did create a grave risk of death to a one year child.  It is alleged that STOKES caused physical injury to the victim who turned one years of age on July 1st, 2006.  The indictment furthers that STOKES punched the victim multiple times in the head with a closed fist. The child, who is presently in a coma, has injuries that include serious brain injuries and a lacerated liver.
 
Soares stated, “It is clear from the recent incidents that involve Albany County’s children that there are babies and children that are being punched in the face, beaten and neglected, by adults with whom they should trust the most in their world.”
 
Soares continues, “We will continue to prosecute these cases, ask for heavy sentences and hold the abusers accountable.  In recent cases such as ELNOR THOMAS and MOHAMED AHMED, we will not negotiate with these horrific acts of violence against our children.”  
 
Soares pointed out the crucial role of law enforcement in collecting evidence as a key to bringing defendants to justice.   "We have to invest in prevention to protect these children, and give them the opportunity to grow up healthy-- it is time to act and re-establish the Child Advocacy Center.”
 
If convicted on all counts, STOKES faces 25 years.  Arraignment will be tomorrow, July 11th, 2006, in front of Judge Stephen Herrick.  No time is available for court schedule.

The Special Victim’s Unit was part of the reorganization within the Albany County District Attorney’s Office.  Since, January of 2005, the unit has doubled in staff size.

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For further information contact: Rachel McEneny