Civic Leader Allegedly Struck By Stranger Outside Riverhead Store

A simple trip to Petco to buy a toy for his new pooch turned ugly Saturday, according to Brad Bender, president of the Flanders, Riverside and Northampton Civic Association.

Bender said he had just gone left the pet store when he stepped outside and was almost hit by a car that sideswiped him. When he protested, Bender said the man got out of his vehicle and hit him in the head. "I was assaulted," he said.

Bender said police were called to the scene.

According to Riverhead Town police, Frank Maino, 57, of Mastic Beach, was arrested at approximately 3:30 on Nov. 24 and charged with harassment, a violation, after the incident.

For months, Bender has been advocating for enhanced police protection in the Riverside and Flanders area, due to the escalating incidents of crime, drugs, and prostitution.