Attempted Murder Charge Dropped in Albany Attorney Threat Case

In Albany, the charge of attempted murder against Saul Morales-Garcia has been dropped following a review of the incident involving U.S. Attorney John Sarcone III. Morales-Garcia, originally charged with second-degree attempted murder, will now face two misdemeanors: second-degree menacing and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon. The decision to reduce the charges came after Albany County District Attorney Lee Kindlon reviewed video footage of the incident, which occurred last week on Lodge Street near the Hilton Albany hotel.

Morales-Garcia, who is from El Salvador and is in the United States illegally, allegedly threatened Sarcone with a knife on the night of June 17. According to the Albany County Sheriff's Office, Morales-Garcia displayed a knife and made motions to cut Sarcone's throat. After reviewing the evidence, Kindlon stated, "A fair reading of the evidence and controlling case law informs that this incident did not rise to the level of attempted murder," and noted that Sarcone agreed with the decision.

Morales-Garcia is scheduled to appear in Albany City Court on July 3 for further proceedings, where a possible resolution in the case may be reached. District Attorney Kindlon expressed gratitude to Sarcone for his commitment to justice and public safety, and also thanked local law enforcement agencies for their work in the community.