Freeport Man Sentenced to 22 Years for RVC Burglary, Police Assault

A Freeport man was sentenced to 22 years in prison Wednesday after of burglarizing a Rockville Centre home in 2010 and fighting with police officers who attempted to arrest him at the scene.

Jerry Valery, 41, was convicted in June of two counts of burglary in the first degree, two counts of assault in the second degree, attempted robbery in the second and third degrees and resisting arrest. He was sentenced this morning by Judge David Sullivan.

Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice said that at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 22, 2010, by pushing in a dining room window air conditioner.

Valery proceeded to steal assorted jewelry and electronics, including a camera and a laptop computer, Rice said. He tripped the home's burglary alarm when he entered and two Rockville Centre police officers quickly arrived at the scene.

Valery was confronted by the officers inside the rear of the home and violently resisted arrest, Rice said. He repeatedly threw punches at the officers and grabbed one of their firearm holsters before being Tasered and placed under arrest. Both officers were treated for minor injuries.

"Police officers place themselves in danger every day, and this situation could have quickly turned tragic if not for the excellent work by these two officers," Rice said. "Their bravery and professionalism helped to ensure that Mr. Valery will be off of our streets for a very long time."