QUEENS, New York — An FDNY firefighter was arrested this week after he allegedly punched an on-duty NYPD police officer in the face while suffering a mental health crisis inside a local hospital, according to sources and prosecutors.
Firefighter Abel Sencion, 34, was on duty Wednesday night when he experienced the medical crisis and was transported to the Queens Hospital Center. While inside the medical facility just before 10:00 p.m., Sencion allegedly struck 32-year-old Officer Philip Vallon in the face, according to a criminal complaint.
The physical altercation left the officer with swelling, redness, and substantial pain. Vallon remained at the medical facility to receive treatment for his injuries.
Sencion was taken into custody a short time later and charged with second-degree assault, which is a felony. He was arraigned on Thursday before Judge Glenda Hernandez, who set bail at $5,000 cash or a $10,000 bond. Sencion has been ordered to return to court on June 2.
An FDNY spokesperson stated that Sencion will face suspension by the department pending the conclusion of his medical leave.
Department records show that Vallon joined the NYPD in 2018 and has been assigned to the 105th Precinct since 2020. One week prior to the incident, Vallon was honored by the Queens Borough President’s Office during a Haitian Flag Day celebration for his service and dedication to the Queens community.
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