The Chairman of the National Association of Latino State Chambers of Commerce, Frank Garcia, has criticized Manhattan prosecutors over the murder charge facing a former bodega worker. Jose Alba, who worked at a bodega in New York City, was attacked on July 1, 2022, by Austin Simon and his girlfriend, Tina Lee. In self-defense, Alba fatally stabbed Simon, but later faced murder charges. However, after public support and outcry, including from Mayor Eric Adams, the Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office dropped the charges. Alba spent nearly a week in jail before his bail was lowered. He has now filed a lawsuit against the city, Bragg, and NYPD Detective William Garcia.
Lawyers representing the city claim that they had sufficient evidence to charge Alba, including testimony from Simon’s girlfriend, witness accounts, and surveillance video footage. They argue that Alba unnecessarily escalated the confrontation, even if it was Simon who initiated it. Alba’s lawyer, Richard Cardinale, has criticized the city’s filing as “outrageous” and disputed their characterization of Alba as the “bad guy.”
The case has garnered attention and raised concerns about racial discrimination. Alba’s lawsuit alleges racial discrimination by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office. The incident has left Alba afraid for his life and considering a return to the Dominican Republic.
This article highlights the ongoing legal battle between Jose Alba and the city of New York, shedding light on the complexities of self-defense cases and the potential for racial bias within the justice system.
