NYPD Captain Accused of Kidnapping Woman

Following an incident in Paterson, NJ on December 19, 2022, Hariton Marachilian, 45, a captain in the New York City police department, is being charged with kidnapping and assault. An anonymous woman suffered serious injuries in the alleged domestic abuse case; this led to an arrest and raised questions about Marachilian’s behavior.

Details of the Incident: A troubling series of events started when the couple went to a restaurant with friends. Marachilian is charged with punching the woman in the face, repeatedly hitting her head on the dashboard of the automobile, strangling her, and leaving obvious scars on her neck. According to reports, the woman was attacked both inside and outside the car, and it seemed to go on for hours.

Charges of Kidnapping and Assault: The criminal complaint describes the terrifying ordeal, stating that the victim briefly managed to flee the car before the NYPD captain pursued her. Allegedly, Marachilian lifted her up, flung her on the ground, and caused cuts and bleeding on her face. The woman begged a bystander to call the police, but Marachilian allegedly seized her phone to stop her from calling for assistance.

Legal Repercussions and Retirement Attempt: After the event, Marachilian tried to turn in his retirement paperwork at NYPD headquarters, but authorities found the arrest warrant for him. In addition, he is charged with two counts of second-degree aggravated assault, third-degree criminal restraint, third-degree criminal coercion, and first-degree kidnapping. He has been placed on paid leave and his retirement has been postponed.

Prior Allegations: Marachilian has been the subject of accusations before. In 2020, he was accused of harassment and inappropriate behavior by Sharon Carolyn Balli, an NYPD narcotics captain. Balli, the first Indian woman to be appointed captain, said Marachilian had constantly asked her personal questions about her sexual life and had even tried to break into the executive bathroom while she was taking a shower. Balli demanded $5 million, but the lawsuit was settled for $800,000.

Legal Proceedings and Defense: According to Marinilian’s defense, he is a father of two, a distinguished 19-year NYPD veteran, and an Iraq War veteran with PTSD. The case calls into question law enforcement officials’ behavior as well as the necessity of responsibility in the wake of grave accusations.