Custodian slashed during altercation with man previously banned from Upper East Side church.

A disturbing incident unfolded at the Saint Catherine of Siena Church on Manhattan’s Upper East Side when a custodian was attacked by an individual who had been previously banned from the premises. The incident occurred on Saturday, just 15 minutes before the church was scheduled to close for the day.

Frank Fernandez attempted to enter the church located at East 68th Street and First Avenue, reportedly in search of restroom facilities. However, due to his prior issues at the church, he was denied entry. According to police reports and court documents, Fernandez, who was aware that he had been barred from the church, became confrontational and refused to leave.

In a troubling turn of events, Fernandez brandished a boxcutter and inflicted a slash wound on the left arm of a 63-year-old custodian. Promptly responding to the scene, law enforcement apprehended Fernandez, who now faces serious charges, including burglary and assault.

During his arraignment at Manhattan Criminal Court, prosecutors sought to impose bail conditions on Fernandez due to the nature of the crime and his prior history. However, Judge Ariel Chester opted instead to issue an order of protection for the custodian, reflecting the court’s priority on safeguarding the victim. Following this decision, Fernandez was placed on supervised release, a ruling that may raise questions about the safety of the church community and its staff.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding safety and security at community facilities, particularly those that serve vulnerable populations. The Church of Saint Catherine of Siena, like many religious institutions, is a place of refuge and solace for locals, making violent incidents such as this all the more troubling.

As law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, community members are expressing their alarm and concern for the custodial staff who dedicate their efforts to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors. The church community is now grappling with the implications of this incident, while advocates for victims of violence emphasize the importance of addressing underlying issues that contribute to acts of aggression within community spaces.