An electric unicycle rider claims he was left with a concussion after a Port Authority cop bum-rushed him as he exited the Holland Tunnel, according to a lawsuit.
Peter Piatetsky cruised into the tunnel from Canal Street on his self-balancing electric unicycle when he got stuck in traffic inside.
Noticing the device’s battery was depleted, Piatetsky, 37, of Queens, decided to turn around and head back to New York City rather than get stuck, he said in his Manhattan Federal Court lawsuit.
When he emerged, Officer Anthony Camacho allegedly “rushed toward” and “body slammed” him, knocking Piatetsky off his $2,000 King Song KS-S18 and into the concrete barrier, where he slammed his head.
Piatetsky was allegedly falsely accused of hitting Camacho’s hands during the Dec. 2, 2023 encounter, leading to resisting arrest, attempted assault, harassment and trespassing charges.
At his arraignment the following morning, he pleaded guilty to a non-criminal violation of disorderly conduct, the criminal charges were dropped, and he was released
Peter Piatetsky was left with a concussion after the 2023 incident. LinkedinThere are no signs posted in the area barring the use of electric unicycles in the tunnel, Piatetsky said in court papers.
Piatetsky accused Anthony Camacho of using “egregious” force. FaceBook Port Authority Police Benevolent Association Inc.
Electric unicycles have become a popular option for many city commuters. Tricky Shark – stock.adobe.comPiatetsky experienced persistent headaches in the months after, he said in the legal filing. He also reported having “brain fog, dizziness, and repeated vomiting,” on top of pain in his wrist and ankle.
He’s seeking unspecified damages.
A Port Authority police spokesperson did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment.
Camacho, who was honored as Port Authority Police Benevolent Association Cop of the Month in July 2021 for arresting a shooting suspect, couldn’t be immediately reached.
