News12 New York
N12 Originals
Numbers & Links
Local
Crime
Weather
Power & Politics
Rebuilding The Bronx
Taking Action
72°
Local
Crime
Weather
Power & Politics
Rebuilding The Bronx
Taking Action
ASSAULT INVESTIGATION POLICE LIGHTS

Employee at autism center accused of placing resident in chokehold

Rojae Omario Rhone, 21, of Poughkeepsie, was arrested for allegedly attacking a 21-year-old, who police say he was supposed to be caring for. It happened at the Anderson Center for Autism in the Town of Hyde Park.

Zoe Cosgrove

Aug 26, 2026, 7:21 PM

Updated

Share:

More Stories

An employee at a center for people with autism is accused of placing a resident in a chokehold, according to New York State Police.

Rojae Omario Rhone, 21, of Poughkeepsie, was arrested for allegedly attacking a 21-year-old, who police say he was supposed to be caring for. It happened at the Anderson Center for Autism in the Town of Hyde Park.

Authorities say they were first notified of the incident on Aug. 19. Officers took Rhone into custody on Monday.

He is charged with endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person and criminal obstruction of breathing.

A spokesperson for the Anderson Center for Autism tells News 12, "Staff intervened immediately when the incident occurred. Upon learning of the incident, leadership immediately placed the employee on leave, reported it to law enforcement and the Justice Center and is fully cooperating with the investigation. The safety and well-being of the individuals we serve are our highest priorities. We take matters such as these very seriously and remain committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for our community."

Police say Rhone received an appearance ticket and is expected in court on Sept. 2.

More From News12

App StoreGoogle Play Store

info

Newsletter

Send Photos/Videos

Contact

About Us

News Team

News 12 New York

follow us

Twitter

Facebook

Instagram

more resources

Optimum Corporate

Optimum Service

Advertise on News 12

Careers

Content Removal Policy

© 2026 N12N, LLC

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

Ad Choices