The Town of Wallkill, New York, is abuzz with news of a dramatic escape from a local psychiatric facility, resulting in an attempted murder indictment for 40-year-old Christopher Morgan of Monroe. Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler revealed that Morgan was arraigned on Tuesday for charges including second-degree attempted murder, first-degree robbery, first-degree attempted assault, and three counts of second-degree assault. These charges stem from an alleged violent attack on a health care provider in the Town of Wallkill on March 6.
Court documents detail how Morgan, a patient in the behavioral health unit at Garnet Medical Center, assaulted his psychiatrist by repeatedly punching her, knocking her to the ground, and stealing her identification badge. Following the attack, Morgan fled the scene, only to be apprehended in the City of Port Jervis the next day. The victim sustained serious injuries to her face, head, and body.
DA Hoovler emphasized the importance of a safe working environment for healthcare providers, stating, “Healthcare providers are the helpers in society and they deserve to work free of unprovoked violence.” He expressed gratitude for the swift actions of law enforcement in capturing Morgan without further incident. The pursuit of violent criminals and accountability for those who inflict harm on the community remain top priorities for the district attorney’s office.
During the arraignment, Morgan’s bail was continued, and he was returned to Orange County Jail with a bail set at $250,000 cash or options for partially or fully secured bond. A conference is scheduled for May 5 to address further proceedings in the case. DA Hoovler commended the New York State Police for their investigation leading to Morgan’s arrest, along with the City of Port Jervis Police Department, City of Middletown Police Department, Town of Wallkill Police Department, and Orange County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in capturing the suspect.