LOCKPORT, NY – A New York food truck operator, facing allegations of setting a woman on fire over an alleged theft, appeared in court on Friday. Barinder Singh, 38, is the owner of the Indian Fusion food truck based in Niagara Falls.
Singh has been indicted on two felony charges. These include assault with the intention to cause serious injury and assault with the intent to dismember or disfigure. His charges come in connection with an incident regarding a 48-year-old woman from Niagara Falls. The woman is currently in critical condition at the Erie County Medical Center’s burn unit.
Prosecutors alleged in court that Singh set the woman aflame because she supposedly stole merchandise from his truck worth $5. However, Singh, who was being represented by a public defender, pled not guilty. According to his defense, Singh “vehemently denies” all allegations.
Earlier this week, a city court judge released Singh on his recognizance. Consequently, the Niagara County District Attorney’s office sought immediate intervention from a grand jury for a review of his release by a Niagara County judge.
The prosecutor advocated for Singh’s remand during Friday’s court session, citing the victim’s severe injuries. The woman reportedly sustained significant burns on her head, body, and arm. Singh’s defense argued that if held in jail to await trial, Singh could potentially lose his business and livelihood. It was disclosed that Singh’s business license for the Indian Fusion truck has been withdrawn by the city.
Judge John Ottaviano at the Niagara County set bail at $100,000 cash or $200,000 bond. Responding to this development, Niagara County District Attorney Brian Seaman expressed hope that the set bail would be adequate.
At the moment, Singh is retaining a private attorney and his public defender declined to comment.