Stalking Charges in Bronx Domestic Violence Cases - David Mejia Colgan
Episode notes
From David Mejia Colgan, Esq. - Stalking Charges in Bronx Domestic Violence Cases explores how a single allegation in the Bronx can trigger immediate legal consequences, including arrest, orders of protection, and proceedings in Bronx County Criminal Court and the Bronx County Integrated Domestic Violence Court. This episode unpacks how New York law approaches stalking within domestic relationships and why these cases receive heightened scrutiny across both criminal and family court systems.
Drawing on over 30 years of experience, David Mejia Colgan, Esq., a former Bronx Assistant District Attorney, shares insight into how cases are built and challenged under New York Penal Law Sections 120.45 through 120.60. The discussion breaks down the four degrees of stalking charges—from Class B misdemeanors to Class D felonies—and explains how factors like prior convictions, alleged conduct, and use of technology such as GPS tracking influence penalties, including jail time, fines, and mandatory minimum sentences.
Listeners will gain a clear understanding of how stalking cases move through arraignment at Bronx County Criminal Court, the role of Temporary Orders of Protection and Final Orders of Protection, and how the Bronx County District Attorney’s Office prosecutes these cases. The episode also explores the structure of the Integrated Domestic Violence Court, where one judge may oversee criminal charges alongside custody, visitation, or matrimonial matters, shaping outcomes that extend beyond criminal penalties.
The episode concludes with practical guidance on defense strategies and next steps after an arrest, including protecting your rights, avoiding violations of orders of protection, and documenting evidence. It also addresses collateral consequences such as impacts on employment, housing, immigration status, firearms restrictions, and child custody. David Mejia Colgan, Esq. emphasizes the importance of early legal action and understanding how charges may be reduced, dismissed, or resolved through avenues like Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal under New York Criminal Procedure Law Section 170.55.
David Mejia Colgan, Esq
910 Grand Concourse Suite 1F, Bronx, NY 10451, United States
(718) 484-8820