Man Charged with Attempted Murder After Alleged Grindr Attack in New York

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man charged with attempted murder of grindr date

A 28-year-old man has been accused of luring a Grindr date to his home in Middletown, New York, before allegedly stabbing him multiple times and causing life-altering injuries, including the loss of an eye.

According to prosecutors, Reggie Florence arranged to meet the victim through the dating app on August 3. The victim reportedly traveled from Long Island to Florence’s residence, where Florence offered to give him a massage. While the encounter began as expected, authorities said Florence allegedly retrieved a hidden kitchen knife and attacked the man.

Court documents state that Florence stabbed the victim several times in the back of the neck before the man attempted to fight back. During the struggle, prosecutors alleged that Florence continued stabbing him in the torso and face, ultimately causing the loss of an eye and other critical injuries. The victim also suffered a punctured lung and numerous stab wounds.

A neighbor who witnessed part of the attack contacted police. Responding officers arrived to find Florence allegedly standing over the victim while still struggling with the knife. Florence sustained minor injuries during the altercation.

Investigators later reported finding 12 knives hidden throughout the residence, along with cleaning supplies including a mop, bucket, and bleach positioned near the scene of the assault.

Orange County District Attorney David Hoovler described the incident as a narrowly averted homicide. “It is a miracle that the haunting allegations in this case did not result in the death of the victim,” Hoovler said. “While the victim continues to recover from life-altering injuries, we will seek to hold this defendant accountable for his unspeakable crimes.”

Florence has been charged with attempted murder, assault with intent to cause serious injury, and assault with intent to cause disfigurement. He entered a plea of not guilty and is currently being held at Orange County Jail after failing to post a $500,000 cash bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for August 28.

The victim remains hospitalized as he recovers from his injuries.