What is second degree harassment? Here's the definition:
https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/PEN/240.26
If you want to see some of the differences, the links at the top of the page take you on the left to first degree and on the right to aggravated harassment in the second degree, both of which are misdemeanors, whereas "regular" second degree harassment is a violation.
The original charge of criminal obstruction of breathing was also a misdemeanor charge.