POUGHKEEPSIE – The 52-year-old Pawling woman who attacked three elderly anti-ICE protesters in January in Pawling was sentenced to jail by Dutchess County Court Judge Jessica Segal today (Monday).  Annette Strehle physically assaulted three women at the intersection of Route 22 and Main Street in Pawling by punching a woman in the chest with a closed fist, forcibly shoving another woman to the ground, and flinging a third woman to the ground while attempting to take her cell phone. Additionally, Strehle damaged two of the women’s eyeglasses by crushing them in her hands.

At the time of the attack, one victim was 81 years old and two of the women were 73 years old.

In a plea agreement offered by the Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office, Strehle pleaded guilty to one count of felony attempted assault and two misdemeanor counts of criminal mischief.  In exchange, Strehle was sentenced to six months in the Dutchess County Jail and 60 days in jail for each misdemeanor.  The two 60-day sentences will be served concurrently.  After her release, Strehle will serve five years on probation through the Dutchess County Probation Department.  During her jail time, the defendant must participate in anger management counseling.

The first victim to speak at the sentencing said: “I am very grateful that there is structure in place to protect us.”  The second victim told the court that, in her more than 81 years, she has participated in many protests and said she was astonished that the small protest caused so much anger.  Another victim, assaulted on her 73rd birthday, sent a statement which was read by lead prosecutor Nick LaStella.  The woman asked for incarceration for Strehle because the defendant is not truly sorry for her actions, and called her “a very angry person.”

LaStella said his prosecution of the case was not political.  “I am not trying to change Ms. Strehle’s views, but at no time is it acceptable to assault someone who is participating in a peaceful protest,” and also said, “The DA’s Office will continue to prosecute those who attack lawfully-abiding protesters.”

Judge Segal was direct in explaining Strehle’s jail sentence.  “I think you find it difficult to accept responsibility,” noting the defendant will benefit from treatment programs offered through the probation department.  Recalling the assault, captured on video, Judge Segal said: “The conduct you exhibited was violent – just violent.  I have to send a message to the community that this behavior will not be tolerated.”



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