Police: Yorktown Man, 21, Prevents Victim From Calling Police, Violates Order of Protection

A 21-year-old Yorktown man is accused of violating an order of protection and taking the phone away from a victim who was trying to call police, said. 

Police responded to the Yorktown home on June 23 at about 1:34 p.m. The defendant, Branden H. Berlanga, allegedly wrestled the phone away from the victim who was calling the police for emergency assistance. 

When the defendant's attempt to take away the phone was unsuccessful, he allegedly pulled the phone cord from the wall. lt’s further alleged the criminal act was done in violation of a duly served Westchester County Family Court Order of Protection, police said. 

Initial attempts to locate the defendant were unsuccessful, police said. On June 24 at about 11 a.m. the man voluntarily surrendered to the Yorktown Police Department where he was placed under arrest.

He was charged with forth degree criminal contempt and criminal mischief, misdemeanors. 

Berlanga was released on his own recognizance and was scheduled to appear in court on June 28.