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Bail reduced for Baldwin driver

Hit and run killed Lynbrook man

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A Baldwin man is out on bail after allegedly driving while intoxicated, striking and killing a Lynbrook man with his car and fleeing the scene.

Cosmin V. Florea, 34, of Baldwin had his bail reduced from $500,000, which was set at arraignment on Aug. 17, to $100,000 three days later. Florea’s attorney Michael DerGarabedian said he presented some facts to the district attorney’s office and District Court Judge Martin Massell that led to the bail being reduced.

According to police, Florea struck Donald Mooney, 49, of Lynbrook, as Mooney was crossing Main Street in Port Washington on Aug. 15 at 11:57 p.m. Mooney was transported to North Shore University Hospital for treatment of severe head and body trauma. He succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced at 4:23 a.m.

DerGarabedian, who was hired after Florea was arraigned, said his client has no criminal background and is gainfully employed. The Rockville Centre-based attorney added that $100,000 is an adequate bail because it ensures that Florea will show up to court without bankrupting his family.

Police say Florea left the scene and was observed and stopped by New York City police officers in Queens at 12:45 a.m. The vehicle, a black 2010 Ford Fusion, had windshield and front end damage. The NYPD investigation led to Port Washington police officers responding to that location and arresting Florea. The defendant was transported back to Nassau County Police Headquarters for arrest processing. Florea’s vehicle was impounded for testing.

Florea was charged with second-degree vehicular manslaughter, leaving the scene of a fatality and driving while intoxicated. He is due back in court on Oct. 1.