New York, NY – In the ongoing investigation by the NYPD into the assault on officers in Times Square, six additional suspects are being sought, sparking increased discussions about the deportation of the asylum seekers involved.
Out of the twelve migrants allegedly implicated in the Saturday attack, six have yet to be apprehended. While six were initially arrested, only one is currently in custody, with the others having been released. The Police Benevolent Association President, Patrick Hendry, expressed concern, stating, “These individuals who assaulted New York City police officers have no regard for the law… If we’re not protected, how are we going to protect the people in the neighborhoods.”
During a court hearing on Thursday, Yohenry Brito, a 24-year-old accused of initiating the altercation, was ordered held on $15,000 bail for second-degree assault and obstructing governmental administration. Notably, he was identified by a distinctive tattoo on his neck and appeared in court wearing a shirt that read, “Work hard. Be kind.”
While acknowledging the functioning of the justice system in Brito’s case, Hendry questioned the release of four individuals on their own recognizance the previous day. These individuals, described as migrants, were released due to ongoing evidence collection to determine their specific roles in the incident, according to the Manhattan District Attorney.
Governor Kathy Hochul reinforced calls for the deportation of the accused migrants, emphasizing, “Get them all and send them back. You don’t touch our police officers. You don’t touch anybody.” It is reported that four of the released individuals may have left the state.
A police source revealed that these individuals provided fake names to a church group involved in a migrant resettlement program, obtaining bus tickets. The NYPD currently does not have immediate plans to track them down, as their next court appearance is scheduled for February 20. Former NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism, John Miller, commented on the situation, stating, “It’s a crime where you have to weigh what is the likelihood of their return to court.”
While a seventh person was initially arrested, the DA declined to press charges due to insufficient evidence, leading to their release. The police union reported injuries to the attacked officer, including a shoulder injury and a laceration to a lieutenant’s face. If convicted, the currently arrested suspects could face up to seven years in prison.
