Assistant Attorney General Stacey Hamilton may face third-degree criminal tampering charges for allegedly damaging a neighbor’s car by throwing an unidentified liquid onto it in November. The incident has garnered attention, despite being unrelated to high-profile cases handled by the New York Attorney General’s office, such as the investigation into former President Donald Trump.
Hamilton’s lawyer has accused the Albany County District Attorney’s office of unfair treatment, despite the case being assigned to an independent special prosecutor. Hamilton herself has denied being charged with any crime, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation.
Court records indicate that Hamilton allegedly doused “unknown liquids” on a neighbor’s car, leading to a vandalism report to the police. The incident occurred on the same evening that the girlfriend of the car owner reportedly physically assaulted Hamilton.
Hamilton’s attorney claims that the vandalism complaint was fabricated to pressure her to drop a criminal case against the girlfriend. He also suggested personal animosity within the Albany County District Attorney’s office as a potential motive behind the case.
The District Attorney’s office has denied involvement in Hamilton’s prosecution, refuting claims of manipulation. Hamilton has criticized media coverage of the incident and clarified that a court document citing the tampering charge does not equate to being formally charged with a crime.
A court hearing regarding the vandalism charges against Hamilton was initially scheduled for Tuesday but has been rescheduled for April 17. If convicted of third-degree criminal tampering, Hamilton could face up to 90 days in jail.
