Man Accused Of Posing As Police Officer, Abducting Teens On Long Island Arraigned

LINDENHURST, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) — The man accused of posing as a police officer to lure two girls into his SUV on Long Island was in Suffolk County Court for arraignment Friday.

Bond for Donald Cristiano Jr. was set at $1 million.

Prosecutors say on Wednesday, Cristiano told the girls, ages 16 and 14, that he was investigating gang activity in the area and it wasn’t safe for them to walk.

He drove the two girls to a local library, told the older teen to get out, then drove off with the younger girl.

MORE: Donald Cristiano Jr. Arrested On Charges Of Impersonating Police Officer, Abducting Teenage Girl On Long Island

Police say he took her to a park and touched her inappropriately.

She fought him off and ran for help.

MORE FROM CBS NEW YORK

• Stimulus Check Latest: Help Is Nearing. What’s The Timeline For Next Economic Relief Payment?
• Oscar-Winning Actor Christopher Plummer Dies At 91
• New York State Trooper Files Discrimination Complaint Against State Police, Alleging Unfair Treatment Of Pregnant Women