by Queens, New York — A disturbing carjacking in Long Island City has sparked outrage after a suspect accused of stealing a vehicle with a blind, elderly man suffering from dementia still inside was released on supervised release following his arrest.
According to police and court records, the incident unfolded on January 17 outside a Target store near 44 Drive and 23 Street in Queens. A 72-year-old blind man was seated in the back of a parked, idling Subaru while waiting for his son to return from shopping. That moment of trust turned into a terrifying ordeal.
Carjacker allegedly drove off with vulnerable passenger inside
Authorities say Dominic Kanin, 30, entered the running vehicle and drove away — apparently unaware or unconcerned that a passenger was still in the backseat.
“The defendant is alleged to have entered a running vehicle after the driver had left the vehicle to enter a Target,” — Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Brewer told the court
Prosecutors stated that Kanin took control of the vehicle and drove off with the elderly man still inside.
“The owner’s father, described as blind and having dementia, was seated in the backseat of the vehicle, effectively stealing the car with a passenger inside,” — Jonathan Brewer, Queens Criminal Court
The vehicle was later abandoned approximately three miles away in Maspeth, with the senior still inside. While the man was physically unharmed, family members say he was confused and frightened during the entire incident.
Family says senior had no idea what was happening
The victim’s wife later described the terrifying experience, explaining that her husband did not understand what was happening while the car was being driven away.
“He didn’t know what was happening the entire time,” — Victim’s wife, speaking previously to reporters
Despite the trauma of the incident, the family expressed relief that the senior was eventually found safe.
Suspect arrested weeks later, faces serious charges
Police arrested Kanin more than two weeks after the alleged carjacking. He was charged with multiple serious offenses, including:
- Grand larceny
- Kidnapping
- Unauthorized use of a vehicle
- Unlawful imprisonment
The charges stem from the alleged act of taking the vehicle while a vulnerable individual remained inside, elevating the seriousness of the case.
Judge releases suspect on supervised release
During Kanin’s arraignment at Queens Criminal Court, the judge ruled that the charges were not bail-eligible under New York law. As a result, Kanin was released under supervised release conditions.
The court ordered supervised release due to the charges not qualifying for bail under state law
Judge Srividya Pappachan also issued an order of protection for both the vehicle’s owner and the elderly passenger.
The decision immediately drew criticism from those who believe the severity of the alleged conduct warranted stricter pretrial detention.
“I’m actually a good person,” suspect claims
As he exited the courtroom, Kanin spoke briefly to reporters, insisting that he is misunderstood and denying being a dangerous individual.
“It’s not what it looks like, to be honest. I’m actually a good person,” Kanin said.
He also referenced an unspecified medical or mental condition but declined to provide details.
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“I have a condition. It’s not like I’m a thug or what. It’s not that at all,” he added
Prosecutors did not comment publicly on Kanin’s statements.
Case reignites debate over public safety and bail laws
The case has reignited debate over New York’s bail reform laws, particularly when suspects accused of violent or disturbing acts are released pending trial. Critics argue that incidents involving vulnerable victims, such as seniors or people with disabilities, should carry stricter consequences.
Supporters of the current system maintain that pretrial detention should be limited and that supervised release provides accountability while respecting legal rights.
What happens next
Kanin is scheduled to return to court on March 30, when the case is expected to proceed further. Prosecutors have not indicated whether additional charges could be added.
For now, the family of the elderly victim is left processing the emotional aftermath of an incident that could have ended far worse.
What are your thoughts on this case and the decision to release the suspect under supervision? Share your views in the comments below.
