8/16/23 Granville, NY – Altercation With Handgun – Man Steals Granville Police Car From Officer – State Police And Washington County Sheriff’s Office Responded To Police Car Crash – Totaled – Suspected DWI – Tased – Arrested

A 39-year-old Granville man is in the Washington County Correctional Facility without bail after he is alleged to have stolen a Granville Police car early Tuesday morning, August 8.

Police say Robet Murat-Hinton was purportedly involved in an altercation of Pacific Street that involved a handgun. An off-duty Granville officer responded to the station, picked up a car and proceeded to the scene. Murat-Hinton was no longer there. While inside interviewing the victim, Murat-Hinton is alleged to have returned and stolen the patrol car. He somehow got the vehicle started, even though the officer had the keys in his pocket, according to police.

Without a vehicle, the officer requested backup from the State Police and the Washington County Sheriff’s office. They responded and soon learned Murat-Hinton had allegedly crashed the vehicle into a parked car on Elm Street. Murat-Hinton scuffled with deputies and troopers and was eventually tased before being taken into custody.

Following his arrest, Murat-Hinton was arraigned in County Court. He faces numerous charges including vehicle theft, DWI, and several counts of menacing with a weapon. He is accused of being involved in two other incidents that morning, prior to appearing at the Pacific Street residence.

There were no injuries reported by Murat-Hinton or any of the victims or officers involved. Granville police say the patrol car’s damage was extensive and is probably a total loss.