Full Breakdown
Carjacking Incident Involving Elderly Blind Man in Queens
2/3/2026, 12:06:35 PM
Incident Overview
Dominic Kanin, a 30-year-old man, was arrested on February 3, 2026, after allegedly carjacking a vehicle with a 72-year-old blind man inside. The incident occurred on January 17, 2026, outside a Target store located at the intersection of 44 Drive and 23 Street in Long Island City, Queens. Kanin reportedly entered a running Subaru while the elderly man, who suffers from dementia, was waiting for his son to return from shopping. After taking the vehicle, Kanin drove approximately three miles before abandoning the car and its passenger in Maspeth.
Charges Filed
Kanin faces multiple charges, including grand larceny, kidnapping, unauthorized use of a vehicle, and unlawful imprisonment. During his arraignment at Queens Criminal Court, Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Brewer detailed the circumstances of the carjacking, emphasizing the vulnerability of the elderly victim who was unaware of the unfolding events. Fortunately, the elderly man was unharmed during the incident.
Legal Proceedings
Despite the serious nature of the charges, Kanin was released on supervised release as the charges were not bail eligible. Judge Srividya Pappachan ordered this release, and an order of protection was issued for the vehicle's owner and his father. Kanin is scheduled to return to court on March 30, 2026.
Kanin's Defense
Following his arraignment, Kanin insisted to reporters that he is not a "thug" and claimed to have a "condition," although he did not elaborate on what this condition entails. He expressed his belief that the media portrayal of him was misleading, stating, “It’s not what it looks like, to be honest. I’m actually a good person.”
Criticism & Opposition
The incident has drawn criticism regarding the judicial system's handling of cases involving violent crimes. Critics argue that the decision to release Kanin on supervised release raises concerns about public safety, particularly given the nature of the crime and the vulnerability of the victim.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The defendant is alleged to have entered a running vehicle after the driver had left the vehicle to enter a Target,” — Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Brewer
- “It’s not what it looks like, to be honest. I’m actually a good person…this story has made the media, right?” — Dominic Kanin
This case highlights ongoing discussions about crime, judicial decisions, and the safety of vulnerable populations in urban areas.
