The Arson/Bomb Squad reports the arrest of a Bayshore man for Arson. The incident occurred on Friday, March 28, 2025 at 7:05 p.m. in Plainview.
According to Detectives, a 70-year-old male who was in his vehicle witnessed the defendant, Jeffrey Neftaly Portillo, 18, use a lighter from his backpack to ignite his own hat and a Mosquito Joe lawn sign. The defendant then threw the enflamed items into the trees of the wooded area of the sump located at Plainview Road and Dorothea Street.
The witness got out of his car, took pictures, attempted to stop the defendant, and called 911. When the victim attempted to stop the defendant, he displayed a knife and threatened to have a “piece”. A Nassau County Police K-9 officer and K-9 arrived to canvass the area and were able to locate the defendant. He was placed under arrest without further incident.
Defendant Jeffrey Neftaly Portillo is charged with Arson 5th degree and Menacing 2nd degree. He was issued two appearance tickets returnable to First District Court, 99 Main Street, Hempstead on April 14, 2025.