Indictment of Seven Individuals for Assault on Police Officers in Times Square
In a press conference held in New York City, Alvin Bragg, Manhattan District Attorney, announced that a grand jury has returned an indictment against seven individuals for their alleged roles in the assault on two police officers in Times Square on January 27. The attack, which sickened and outraged many, prompted a joint investigation between the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and the Manhattan District Attorney's Office.
Bragg expressed his gratitude for the collaboration and highlighted the crucial role played by Chief Detective Kenny Joseph Kenny of the NYPD in the investigation. As a lifelong New Yorker and the Manhattan District Attorney, Bragg stated that he does not tolerate attacks on police officers who work tirelessly to keep the city safe.
Emphasizing the meticulousness of the investigation, Bragg explained that various evidentiary steps were taken, including the analysis of videos obtained from public sources, body-worn cameras, and interviews. Additionally, covert law enforcement measures were undertaken, although the specifics were not disclosed due to their sensitive nature.
Bragg stressed the importance of ensuring that only those who actually committed criminal acts were identified and charged, as the indictment intended to bring the perpetrators to justice without ensnaring innocent individuals in the criminal justice system.
The charges against the indicted individuals were detailed by Bragg during the press conference. The previous five individuals, namely Mr. Gomez-Ezekiel, Mr. Juarez, Mr. Arrocha, Mr. Reveron, and Mr. Brito, had already been arrested, while the names of the remaining two were sealed in the indictment. The unsealed charges include assault in the second degree and obstructing governmental administration. Another individual faces a top charge of tampering with physical evidence.
Bragg proceeded to provide visual evidence, consisting of still footage from videos, capturing each individual's alleged offense conduct. Detailed descriptions of the charges against each defendant were provided, reinforcing the seriousness and significance of their actions.
The Manhattan District Attorney acknowledged the presence of misinformation in the public domain and took the opportunity to rectify it by walking the audience through the charges and the evidence. He also encouraged the public to report any information they may have regarding the unidentified individuals seen in the videos.
Bragg concluded the press conference by expressing his commitment to relentlessly pursue justice and accountability, in collaboration with the NYPD and the guidance of city leadership. He provided a phone number (212-335-9040) for anyone with information related to the assault on the police officers to come forward.
The indictment and subsequent prosecution of these individuals signify the determination of law enforcement agencies to protect the safety of the city's police officers and uphold the law.
