Man Threatens To Stab, Cut Correction Officers: Sheriff

MANORVILLE, NY —Two Suffolk County Sheriff's Office correction staff stepped in to stop a man with a knife recently, officials said.

According to Suffolk County Sheriff Errol Toulon, Reginald Cadett, 31, of Huntington was arrested Monday in Manorville and charged with second degree menacing; he was released according to New York State bail reform guidelines, the sheriff said.

Correction Sergeant Kenny Selg and Correction Officer Robert Ragonese were accompanying a sick officer to an urgent care facility on Wading River Road in Manorville when they observed a disturbance outside on the sidewalk, Toulon said.

Two men on the sidewalk were having an argument that appeared to be escalating, Toulon said.

Selg and Ragonese approached the men to assess the situation when one of the men suddenly yelled, “He has a knife!” Toulon said.

The same man noticed the officers’ badges, recognized them as law enforcement, and called to them for help, Toulon said. Selg and Ragonese called out to Cadett and identified themselves as law enforcement; Cadett placed his right hand in his pocket and began to walk away, Toulon said. The officers positioned themselves between the two men as Cadett stopped in the parking lot 15 feet away, Toulon said.

Selg and Ragonese directed Cadett to remain where he was, Toulon said.

Cadett then threatened to stab and cut both officers; they again ordered him not to move and yo keep his hands out of his pockets, Toulon said.

Suffolk County Police entered the parking lot and Cadett moved around the building, followed by Selg and Ragonese; SCPD closed in and he was immediately taken into custody, Toulon said.

A knife was recovered from his pocket, Toulon said.

Cadett was taken into custody by SCPD 7th precinct officers where he was charged, Toulon said.

“A correction officer’s job does not end when he or she leaves the confines of the correctional facility," Toulon said. "Sgt. Selg and C/O Ragonese came to the aid of a citizen who called for help and they prevented a violent crime from occurring. I commend their actions and I thank them for their hard work and dedication.”