On February 15, 2024, State Police arrested Mary A. Longe, age 80, of Elizabethtown, NY for criminal obstruction of breathing. On February 14, 2024, at approximately 10:45 p.m., Troopers responded to Essex Center, located on Park Street, in the town of Elizabethtown for a harassment complaint. An investigation determined Longe was asking for a nebulizer treatment, but the nurse advised her it is not time for the treatment yet. Longe then wanted cough syrup, and the nurse stated she would have to check the time of the last treatment of cough syrup. Longe became irritated and wrapped the nebulizer cord around the nurse’s neck, obstructing the nurse’s airway. The nurse was able to get their hands under the cord pulling it away from the neck. Longe then shoved nurse into a linen closet and started pulling the nurse’s hair. Other staff members realized the situation and helped the nurse get away from Longe. The nurse was evaluated at Elizabethtown Community Hospital but sustained no injuries. Longe was arrested and transported to SP High Peaks. She was released on an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Elizabethtown Court for a later date in February.
