TOWN OF POTSDAM, New York (WWNY) - A Massena man faces strangulation and criminal mischief charges.

State police arrested 20-year-old Owen Barto on Wednesday.

Shortly before midnight Tuesday, Barto allegedly argued with person inside a vehicle on Route 11 in the town of Potsdam.

Troopers said Barto took the person’s phone and put his hands around their neck.

He was charged with second-degree strangulation and criminal mischief.

He was arraigned in Norfolk Town Court, where he was released under the supervision of probation.

Copyright 2025 WWNY. All rights reserved.

See Full Page