Buffalo man admits to assault upon a police officer after dragging him with vehicle

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — A Buffalo man pleaded guilty Tuesday morning in connection with a 2023 incident that left a Town of Tonawanda police officer seriously injured, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office announced.

On May 29, 2023, a 2019 Kia Sportage was allegedly reported stolen out of East Aurora. Later that day, it is alleged that 20-year-old Dareious Akbar was pulled over in the same vehicle by a Tonawanda police officer.

Akbar had run a red light at the intersection of Sheridan Drive and Sheridan-Parkside Drive, according to officials.

During the traffic stop, Akbar drove off, dragging one of the police officers who had pulled him over. Officer David Piatek was taken to ECMC to be treated for serious physical injuries including a head injury.

Akbar was initially charged with one count of first-degree attempted murder, one count of aggravated assault upon a police officer, and one count of first-degree assault. On June 6, 2024, the charges were dismissed. The district attorney’s office said they are appealing the court’s decision.

He is now charged with the following:

• two counts first-degree assault
• one count assault upon a police officer
• one count third-degree criminal possession of stolen property
• one count third-degree unauthorized use of motor vehicle

Akbar faces a maximum of 25 years when he is sentenced on Oct. 10 and remains held without bail.

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.