SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — Annmarie Drago, a 63-year-old Patchogue resident, has pleaded guilty to Criminally Negligent Homicide in a tragic case that resulted in the death of Evelyn Rodriguez in 2018. The incident occurred following a dispute over a memorial for Rodriguez’s daughter, who was a victim of gang violence.
On September 14, 2018, Drago removed and discarded items from a memorial dedicated to 16-year-old Kayla Cuevas, who had been murdered by gang members near Drago’s home.
The altercation escalated when Rodriguez, demanding the return of the items, was fatally struck by Drago’s vehicle as she attempted to drive away.
This case has seen multiple courtroom developments, including a 2020 conviction and a subsequent appellate reversal in 2022. On May 31, 2024, Drago entered a guilty plea and is now facing a sentence of five years probation, with a recommendation from the District Attorney for one to three years in prison.
Drago’s sentencing is scheduled for August 1, 2024.