NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell expressed frustration at the recent release of a group of migrants accused of attacking two police officers near Times Square. Four suspects remain at large while authorities have criticized the decision to release the arrested individuals without bail. Chell described the attack as “reprehensible” and referred to the suspects as “cowards” during a news conference. The incident, which was captured on surveillance video, involved eight people assaulting the officers who were attempting to disperse a disorderly group.
The two officers sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene. Two suspects, Yorman Reveron and Darwin Andres Gomez Izquiel, were arrested shortly after the attack, followed by the arrests of Kelvin Servat Arocha and Wilson Juarez. However, all four suspects were released without bail. They have been charged with assault on an officer, gang assault, obstructing governmental administration, and disorderly conduct, and have pleaded not guilty. Another suspect, Jhoan Boada, was also arrested and is facing charges of attempted assault on a police officer and gang assault.
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office stated that the investigation into the attack is ongoing, without providing a specific reason for the release of the suspects without bail. A spokesperson emphasized that violence against police officers is unacceptable and highlighted the importance of identifying each defendant and their role in the incident. Chief Chell criticized the release of the suspects, stating that they should be in custody. He expressed concern about the lack of consequences for such attacks on police officers.
The Police Benevolent Association’s president, Patrick Hendry, described attacks on police officers as an “epidemic” and attributed the issue to a revolving door in the justice system. The release of the suspects has raised further concerns, as four other unidentified migrant suspects are still being sought in connection with the Times Square attack. One of the arrested suspects, Reveron, has two pending cases for assault and robbery in Manhattan.
The incident has highlighted the challenges city leaders face in handling an influx of migrants from Texas, which has strained services and tested residents’ patience. Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella criticized the release of the suspects, stating that it exemplifies a system that protects violent criminals and punishes victims. The attack has sparked outrage among city residents and raised questions about the consequences for such acts of violence.
The investigation into the Times Square attack is ongoing, and authorities are actively searching for the remaining suspects. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by police officers and the need for accountability in the justice system.
