Former New York Governor David Paterson expressed vehement concern on Sunday over the recent incident involving migrants assaulting two NYPD officers in Times Square. Paterson argued that this alarming event should serve as a catalyst for a reevaluation of the United States' border policies and crime-related measures.
The assault, caught on video on January 27, ended with three defendants released on their own recognizance, sparking criticism of lenient policies led by the Biden administration and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
Paterson Calls for Accountability on 'Cats Roundtable'
Speaking on the "Cats Roundtable" radio show, Paterson called for increased accountability from the government, refraining from naming specific figures but alluding to President Biden, Bragg, and Judge Martinez Alonso. Paterson stressed that the migrants involved, after entering the country, engaged in violence against law enforcement, highlighting the lack of respect for authority.
Paterson brought out that the defendants are not qualified for the same presumption of innocence since they are not citizens of the United States. He called attention to the need for more scrutiny in the immigration process and expressed worries about their unreported criminal histories from their native nations.
The former governor delved into the controversial cashless bail law in New York, enacted in 2019, which eliminated cash bail for most non-violent crimes. Paterson contended that bail is a crucial tool to ensure defendants appear at trial, but in this case, there was no bail hearing, and the accused were released on their own recognizance.
Expressing frustration, Paterson suggested deportation for the fleeing defendants, asserting that victims of crime should have the right to see justice served. He lamented the lack of prosecution possibilities due to the defendants' departure, adding that the justice system had failed in this instance, as per to New York Post.
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NYPD Assault Perpetrators Flee to California
The assault occurred on West 42nd Street when officers instructed a group of loitering migrants to disperse. The situation escalated into a violent attack on the officers, leading to charges against seven individuals. Six of them reportedly fled to California with government-provided bus tickets, funded by taxpayer dollars.
While three defendants remain in custody, including one held on $15,000 cash bail, concerns arise about the coordination between New York and California authorities for their potential return. California's restrictions on state officers assisting in deportation and various taxpayer-funded programs benefiting illegal migrants further complicate the situation.
Another level of controversy has been added by Governor Gavin Newsom's recent announcement of increased health care coverage for undocumented immigrants in California.
Given that the offenders may have escaped punishment, the episode exposes problems with the legal system and the need for an all-encompassing strategy for law enforcement and border protection. The developments call for a more extensive discussion on the relationship between immigration laws, crime prevention strategies, and the responsibilities of the legal system, according to Fox News.
