Larry Martin, the man accused of a series of assaults involving scalding liquid in New York City, appeared in New York Supreme Criminal Court on Wednesday with a noticeably different demeanor than his previous court date. Martin's attorney, Rosemary Vassallo, stated that her client has been compliant with his treatment plans and cooperative with staff at a rehabilitation facility.
Martin, 42 at the time of the alleged incidents, presented a stark contrast to his initial court appearance on March 28, where he had smiled widely while wearing a bright orange jumpsuit after being indicted. On Wednesday, he sat quietly in a plaid button-down shirt, appearing heavier and clean-shaven. Judge Juan Merchan acknowledged Martin's progress during the brief status hearing.
Prosecutors allege that on March 6, 2024, Martin attacked four individuals within a two-hour span in Midtown Manhattan. The first alleged assault occurred around 7:10 a.m. on East 44th Street and Lexington Avenue, where a man reportedly suffered burns to his neck after hot water was thrown on him. Approximately 36 minutes later, a second victim was allegedly doused with scalding water on West 56th Street and Sixth Avenue, resulting in burns and hearing loss. Around 8:15 a.m. on West 42nd Street and Seventh Avenue, a third victim reportedly had hot liquid thrown onto their face. The final alleged assault took place around 8:39 a.m. on West 35th Street, where a fourth victim sustained burns to their chest and hand.
New York City District Attorney Alvin Bragg stated at the time of the indictment that Martin "allegedly committed violent attacks against four randomly selected individuals walking in Midtown within the span of less than two hours." Bragg added, "My thoughts are with the victims as they heal from their extensive injuries. Nobody should fear for their safety while walking in Manhattan."
The NYPD shared video footage of Martin walking the streets during the period of the alleged attacks and arrested him the following day. Police indicated that Martin's last known address was a homeless shelter in Brooklyn. He also has a prior arrest from August 2021 for allegedly assaulting a 70-year-old man in Queens, for which he was arrested in 2022.
Martin faces four counts of first-degree attempted assault and four counts of second-degree assault. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 9.