This past Saturday, the New York City Police arrested two adolescent males, ages 12 and 13, in conjunction with an assault incident involving former Governor of New York, David Paterson, and his stepson. The assault took place on the Upper East Side of Manhattan during an evening walk around 8:30 pm.
Paterson, who served as governor from 2008 to 2010 and was New York’s first African American governor, is 70 years of age and legally blind. Also involved in the incident was his stepson, Anthony Sliwa, a 20-year old young man.
The assault happened while Paterson and his stepson were out for an evening stroll. Immediately after the incident, they received medical attention for minor injuries they sustained, particular to the face area.
Besides the minor facial injuries, Paterson also incurred several body injuries. Given his situation of legal blindness, this raises grave concerns about the nature and severity of the assault.
The young boys involved in the incident were subsequently taken into police custody. With concerns over their age, the police have not released their names to the public. Each of the boys has been charged with gang assault, indicating that more individuals might be involved.
Official reports from the authorities have suggested that the assault involved at least five individuals. This lends further credence to the charges of gang assault and sparks concerns about juvenile delinquency in the city.
In the wake of the incident, the police have called upon the public to assist with any information relevant to the assault. Such community collaboration is often necessary in solving crime mysteries and bringing the culprits to justice.
David Paterson, who became governor after Eliot Spitzer’s resignation following a prostitution scandal, has been candid about the incident. On Saturday, he recounted the events leading up to the assault to the public.
His story reveals that the assault began as his stepson, who was out walking their family dog, came across the assailants. They were climbing up the fire escape of a building located on Second Avenue. Concerned by their suspicious activity, Sliwa warned them that he would contact the police.
Later in the evening, the situation escalated. Paterson and his stepson came across the group of youths again during their walk. An argument ensued, and then violence broke out. Two members of the group reportedly assaulted both Paterson and his stepson.
Despite being outnumbered, Sliwa managed to fight off several of the attackers. However, the assault left him with a cut on his face that necessitated multiple stitches.
The incident is a stark reminder of the risks of juvenile crime, and raises concerns about the safety of public areas. Investigations are still ongoing to identify any further individuals involved in the incident and bring them to justice.
The public response has been one of shock and concern. Many have lauded Sliwa’s bravery in confronting the assailants, even as dialogue continues around preventing such incidents in the future and ensuring public safety for all.