The driver of a car who intentionally brake-checked and reversed into another vehicle has been charged on multiple counts – all thanks to the victim’s dashcam.
Last month, Ashpia Natasha was driving her Acura SUV on the Belt Parkway in Queens, New York City when a Honda Civic entered her lane, violently braking in front of her.
While Ms Natasha was able to stop in time to prevent hitting the Civic, the Honda’s driver puts their car into reverse, backing into the Acura.
To make matters even more bizarre, a screen is temporarily placed in the Honda’s rear window, allegedly to allow its occupants to swap seats before emerging from the car.
100s of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
After pretending to have suffered head injuries and taking photos of the Acura, one of the Honda’s four occupants is picked up by a Kia Sportage which was travelling behind Ms Natasha, leaving three passengers behind.
Footage of the incident from various angles racked up more than 90 million views on social media, though until now no one had been charged.
That’s now changed, with Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announcing 28-year-old Maikel Martinez was charged with staging a motor vehicle accident, reckless endangerment, insurance fraud and criminal mischief.
Mr Martinez faces up to seven years in prison for his involvement in the incident.
“The defendant and others allegedly staged a crash on a busy highway and rammed an unsuspecting driver with their vehicle after they forcibly stopped her in the left lane of the Belt Parkway,” said DA Katz.
“Countless lives were jeopardised due to this incredibly reckless conduct.”
An investigation into the other parties involved in the incident is ongoing.
