CINCINNATI -- The second of two alleged teenage rock throwers accused of seriously injuring a taxi passenger last month on Cincinnati's eastside is behind bars on a $600,000 bond.
Cincinnati Police are crediting Crime Stoppers tips for leading them to arrest 18-year-old Joseph Burdine of the East End Wednesday night. Burdine and a 16-year-old arrested Tuesday are accused of throwing the rocks at cars on Columbia Parkway last month.
One of those rocks flew through the open windows of a passing taxicab, leaving a 23-year-old Joyce Baresel of Batavia with a skull fracture.
Burdine turned himself in to police Wednesday night, after his alleged 16-year-old accomplice was arrested in connection with the incident. Both teens now face felonious assault charges.
Burdine appeared in the Hamilton County Justice Center for his arraignment Thursday morning, where a judge assigned him his bond amount.
According to Cincinnati Police Officer Howard Moy, the teens said they "were out just having fun... They were just throwing rocks."
"He stated to me that they had no malicious intent other than to, I guess, whatever kids do for fun; throw rocks at cars and damage vehicles. Unfortunately, one of these rocks, a baseball size rock, struck Ms. Baresel, the victim." continued Officer Moy.
Police say the helpful Crime Stoppers tips about the rock throwing came in after restaurant owner Jeff Ruby offered to double the standing $5,000 reward.
Meanwhile, Baresel continues to recover at home after extensive hospital treatment for her skull fracture and nerve damage. On Wednesday, she issued a statement thanking the Cincinnati Police and the community for their support.
Police say the rock throwing case is not yet closed and they are still looking for additional information. If you can help, please call Crime Stoppers at (513)352-3040 or text tips to (513)352-3050.
