Police Investigate Assault, Underage Drinking Party in Steuben County
The New York State Police have arrested multiple individuals in connection with an alleged assault that took place at an underage drinking party in the town of Wayland, Steuben County.
According to police, the investigation began on March 15, when a victim, accompanied by a legal guardian, reported being assaulted at a gathering on County Route 50. Authorities say video evidence and witness statements identified several individuals involved in the altercation.
Five people were arrested, including four juveniles—three 17-year-olds and a 15-year-old—along with 18-year-old Nickayla Wise of Wayland. Police state that the altercation stemmed from a personal dispute, with a 17-year-old allegedly initiating the incident before others joined in.
All five suspects were charged with third-degree assault, a misdemeanor. Each was issued a Family Court appearance ticket, with a scheduled court date on March 25. Wise faces an additional charge of endangering the welfare of a child and is set to appear in Wayland Town Court on April 2.
Further investigation led authorities to identify 19-year-old Dylan James McDonald of Wayland as the host of the gathering. McDonald was charged under Steuben County’s Social Host Law and with unlawful dealing with a child, both misdemeanors. He is scheduled to appear in Wayland Town Court on April 9.
The New York State Police continue to investigate the incident.