The community is coming together in a big way as a 19-year Barnstable Police veteran remains in recovery after being struck by a vehicle while helping pedestrians leave a concert, police said.
Officer Peter Ginnetty was hit shortly after 10:00 p.m. Sunday, at 41 West Main Street in Hyannis. Police said he was standing in a marked, illuminated crosswalk with flashing lights near the end of a ZZ Top show at the Cape Cod Melody Tent, wearing a bright reflective jacket and holding a flashlight.
Officers and Melody Tent staff began first aid immediately. Hyannis Fire Department personnel then took Ginnetty to Cape Cod Hospital.
Police said Ginnetty suffered several serious injuries, including multiple broken bones and a significant injury to his right leg.
The driver was identified as 43-year-old Robert Brando-Hunt of Osterville. Police said a preliminary investigation found probable cause that he was operating under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested at the scene and charged with Operating Under the Influence of Liquor, Second Offense, Operating Under the Influence of Liquor with Serious Injury and Negligence, and Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle.
On Monday at arraignment in Barnstable District Court, Brando-Hunt pleaded not guilty and was being held on $100,000 bond / $10,000 cash bail. A pretrial hearing is scheduled for October 14th.
Friends and family have launched a GoFundMe, “Support the Ginnetty Family’s Road to Recovery.” Organizers said Officer Ginnetty is a U.S. Army veteran and father of two sons. He has coached youth lacrosse and hockey. Funds will help with medical care, travel to and from Boston hospitals, household expenses, and home modifications so he can return home.
As with all criminal defendants, the accused is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
