October 19, 2026
FROM THE STEUBEN COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEYS OFFICE: Friday afternoon, after several hours of deliberations, a Steuben County jury returned a verdict convicting 42 year old Walter Golden, of Arkport, of two counts of 1st degree Assault,each a class B violent felony. During trial, it was proven that Golden intentionally used his car as a weapon on March 30, 2025. He stalked his two victims as they took an evening walk ultimately finding an opportunity to attack them with the vehicle on a dirt path. He ran them down, intentionally, causing serious physical injury to both. Deputy District Attorney Joan Merry, who tried the case for the People, praised the bravery of the victims throughout the process, and during their testimony on stand: “ These are truly innocent victims, simply out for an evening walk when the defendant chose to bring violence and pain into their lives. Even as they try to overcome the injuries inflicted, they were still able to stand up, appear in court and testify to keep him from doing the same thing to other people. “ The case was investigated by the New York State Police and Merry also had high praise for Investigator Luke Szymanski, who demonstrated tremendous persistence and professionalism in putting this case together and making justice happen for these victims. The case was tried before the Hon Christopher Tunney, Steuben County Court Judge, and Attorney Dan McGill represented the defendant. Golden faces up to 20 years in prison when he appears before Judge Tunney December 15, 2026. Defendant was immediately remanded to the Steuben County Jail to await sentencing.
