Mass. The four are charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault on a police officer, and conspiracy in connection with the October 1996 shooting. If convicted, they could face more than 30 years in state prison. Plavnick is still recovering from his injuries, according to officers at the 46 th Precinct. A police report alleges that with the help of Almonte and Negron, Ortiz shot Plavnick in the back from long range as the officer, wearing his uniform, exited his car just outside the 46 th Precinct building at Ryer and 181st Street.
Ponce is charged with driving the getaway car.
Tuco has not been charged in connection with the shooting. Assistant District Attorney Dawn Florio, who is handling the case, declined to comment on the trial. Tuco's tapes were the subject of evidence hearings last week as defense attorneys tried to cast doubt on the credibility of both the tapes and the informant. We think that the tapes are unreliable because we think that they were manipulated by the informant. Stewart said that Tuco was an acquaintance of her client.