On Wednesday, relatives of the individuals who were killed and injured in a Halloween terror attack on a New York City bike path are expected to speak at the sentencing hearing for Sayfullo Saipov, who prosecutors say deserves multiple life sentences. Saipov, an Islamic extremist and Uzbekistan citizen, was rejected from receiving the death penalty by a jury in March, which left him with a mandatory life sentence. Saipov carried out his attack on Halloween in 2017 when he ran his rented truck onto a bike path in lower Manhattan, killing five tourists from Argentina, two Americans and a Belgian woman, and seriously injuring 18 others.
Prosecutors urged Judge Vernon S. Broderick to impose a sentence of eight consecutive life sentences — one for each death — and an additional 260 years in prison, according to a presentence submission. Although, his lawyer, David Patton’s position on Saipov’s sentencing has not been reported yet.
Prosecutors stated in Saipov’s presentencing submission: “Saipov is an unabashed terrorist — a proud murderer who deserves no leniency and should be punished to the fullest extent of the law.”
Saipov emerged from his truck shouting, “God is great” in Arabic and waving paintball and pellet guns in the air– he was shot by a police officer and immediately taken into custody. Prosecutors said that after the attack, Saipov smiled as he asked FBI agents who questioned him in a hospital room if they could hang an Islamic State group flag on the walls.
At the trial, Saipov’s family members urged a life sentence, saying they hoped he would realize what he had done and express remorse. They said they wanted him to return to the passive person they remembered him as before he grew obsessed with online propaganda posted by the Islamic State militant group.
Saipov was a former long-haul truck driver that legally moved to the U.S. from Uzbekistan in 2010 and lived in Ohio and Florida before joining his family in Paterson, New Jersey.
The sentencing is expected to be emotional as family members of the deceased and those who were injured plan to speak. These individuals have struggled to come to terms with the trauma of what occurred and are looking for justice. It is imperative that Saipov be held accountable for his violent and horrific actions that took innocent lives.
Unfortunately, Saipov’s actions are a tragic reminder of the ongoing terrorist threat to the U.S., and especially New York City. It is crucial that law enforcement officials remain vigilant and continue to work tirelessly to prevent these types of attacks from happening again.
The political climate we currently face is complicated, but it must not be used as an excuse to dismiss violent extremism in any form. The danger is too great. It is essential that we continue to treat terrorism as a serious threat regardless of the perpetrator’s religious affiliation, nationality or any other characteristic.
Justice must be served, and it is reassuring to see that the prosecution is taking the necessary steps to ensure that Saipov is brought to justice. This was a barbaric, cowardly attack committed by a terrorist, and it should not be tolerated.
It is important to remember that the Constitution guarantees all individuals a fair trial and due process of law. This includes Saipov, no matter how heinous his crime or how strong our emotions may run. However, this does not stop us from demanding accountability for his actions.
The victims and their families are the ones who truly understand the impact of Saipov’s senseless violence. They have suffered irreparable harm and unspeakable loss, and they deserve justice. However, we cannot forget the extent of Saipov’s actions and how it shook the nation.
While we cannot change the past, we can work towards a better, safer future. One where we acknowledge the threats we face while remaining united and steadfast in our commitment to freedom and security. Today’s sentencing is a step towards actuating that future.
Despite the terrorist attacks that have occurred, New York City has stood strong in the face of adversity. We cannot let the actions of one individual define us. The city where the attack occurred is a symbol of resilience, strength, and unity.
It is our responsibility as citizens to stand with the victims and their families, and to ensure that justice is served. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time, and we hope that they can find some comfort in knowing that Saipov is being held accountable for his actions.