Investigation continuing: Elmy released on bail; victim still in hospital

The Whitehall man arrested last week and accused of assaulting a female companion has been released pending an indictment by the Washington County District Attorney.

A representative with the county DA’s office said Robert A. Elmy, 63, of Whitehall has been released from a Washington County Jail and officials have yet to schedule an indictment hearing.

Whitehall Police Chief Matt Dickinson met with officials from the DA’s office on Friday to discuss the possibility of weightier charges but county attorneys have yet to interview the victim, who is still in the hospital, and the investigation is ongoing.

The victim’s condition is believed to have improved slightly, but the woman’s name has not been released, so her status could not be checked at the hospital.

The DA’s office said a full order of protection has been issued against Elmy.

Elmy is accused of assaulting the woman in her residence and causing a serious head injury that forced doctors to put her in a medically induced coma.

He brought the victim to the hospital where officials contacted local authorities to notify them of a possible assault after finding bruises on her body and a serious head injury.

The victim told police Elmy assaulted her.

Elmy, who owns the Champlain Harbor Marina and RV Park, was later interviewed by the New York State Police in Queensbury who transported him to the Whitehall Police Department where he was arrested and processed.

He was charged with second-degree assault, a class D felony.

Police do not believe a weapon was used during the attack, but continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case, including whether alcohol was a factor.

Officials with the DA’s office said there can be little discussion of charges until they’ve spoken with the victim. 

Assault charges often hinge on the cooperation of the victim and can come down to the testimony of the victim versus the testimony of the accused.

It is believed the victim will survive her injuries but when the DA’s office will be able to speak to her is unknown.