Poughkeepsie, New York – In a violent attack captured on camera last summer, a man charged with attempted murder has been released on $1,350 bail following a recent appellate court decision. Rakim Paulin, 43, regained his freedom when the court ruled that the Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office had failed to prosecute the case within the required 90-day period. This failure to act occurred while Paulin was detained without bail, as mandated by the state’s revised bail reform laws.
Paulin is linked to a midday assault on Main Street last August, where two individuals were brutally injured in front of witnesses. The victims were stabbed, beaten, strangled, and even run over with a car in the attack. A relative of one victim shared with News 12 the profound impact of the incident, revealing that the victim sustained a permanent and severe brain injury. The aftermath of the assault has turned into a daily struggle for the victim.
As a condition of his release, Paulin has been required to surrender his passport, report to probation regularly, and is restricted from leaving Dutchess County. However, his co-defendants, who have pleaded guilty to lesser charges, remain in custody awaiting sentencing by the Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office. Meanwhile, Paulin is gearing up for his impending trial, set to commence next month.
The violent episode has left a lasting mark on the community, raising concerns about safety and justice. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of swift and effective legal proceedings in ensuring accountability and closure for victims of such heinous crimes. The upcoming trial of Rakim Paulin will be closely monitored by residents and advocates, who seek justice and resolution for those impacted by the disturbing attack that unfolded in broad daylight on Poughkeepsie’s Main Street.