New York Governor Kathy Hochul has expressed openness to considering the deportation of a group of migrants who recently attacked two NYPD officers in Times Square. Governor Hochul has emphasized her dissatisfaction with the attackers being released on bail and remaining in the city. While she has not made any promises, she believes exploring the possibility of deporting these individuals is warranted.
The incident involved a group of migrants assaulting two law enforcement officers near Times Square. Governor Hochul firmly stated that it is unacceptable for police officers to be subjected to physical assault under any circumstances. She expressed concern about the attackers' immigration status, stating that if someone commits a crime against a police officer in New York State and is not legally present, it is definitely worth investigating the potential for deportation.
This stance represents a shift from Governor Hochul's message to migrants in 2021. She had previously cited the inscription on the Statue of Liberty, expressing that the state welcomed people regardless of where they came from or the circumstances that drove them to the country. However, the recent attack on law enforcement officers has prompted her to reevaluate her position.
Five migrants were arrested and charged with second-degree assault on a police officer in connection with the incident. Surprisingly, all of them were subsequently released without bail. One of the attackers even made a vulgar gesture towards the cameras upon leaving the courtroom. This decision has drawn criticism and further intensified the debate surrounding immigration policies and law enforcement.
Curtis Lewa, founder of the Guardian Angels and former mayoral candidate, has taken matters into his own hands by patrolling the streets in an effort to protect New Yorkers. According to Lewa, these migrants have formed gangs and have become increasingly confrontational when confronted by the police. He highlighted video evidence of a brutal assault inflicted upon the two officers. Some of the attackers have previous arrests for crimes such as theft and assault. Authorities are still searching for three suspects who managed to evade capture during the attack.
These events have raised important questions about the treatment of migrants who commit crimes. Critics argue that instead of focusing solely on perpetrators who assault law enforcement officers, the government should also address the broader issue of illegal immigration. They contend that entering the country illegally is itself a crime.
As Governor Hochul explores the possibility of deporting the attackers in this particular case, the debate surrounding immigration policies and their implications on public safety and law enforcement continues to unfold. It remains to be seen how this incident will shape the state's approach to immigration and the enforcement of immigration laws.
