Advocates Demand Accountability After NYPD’s Chaotic Protest Response

UPDATE: Immigrant advocates and elected officials are voicing strong condemnation of the NYPD following a chaotic response to anti-ICE protests in Chinatown on November 29. The situation escalated dramatically, resulting in calls for charges against demonstrators to be dropped.

At a press conference held outside the garage on Howard and Centre Streets, advocates did not hold back as they criticized the NYPD’s aggressive tactics. Murad Awawdeh, head of the New York Immigration Coalition, stated, “New Yorkers were confronted by the NYPD, and then they were brutalized. Some people were randomly maced, while others were violently thrown to the ground.” His remarks highlighted the urgent need for accountability in the wake of such police actions.

Local politicians echoed these sentiments, demanding that Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg drop charges against the 19 protesters arrested during the clash. City Comptroller Brad Lander claimed that police actions violated local laws by facilitating the escape of federal agents during their operations. “When you see SRG agents clearing the street for trucks, that is facilitating ICE deportations. It is not tolerable,” Lander asserted.

Public Advocate Jumaane Williams urged New Yorkers to continue their peaceful resistance against ICE, emphasizing, “We will not apologize for stepping up and protecting one another.” His call to action resonated with many who believe in the sanctity of New York as a sanctuary city.

Witnesses reported that police were seen tackling protesters and using batons. One sergeant was observed deploying pepper spray, affecting not only protesters but also journalists and fellow officers. Amidst the turmoil, police sources confirmed that about 19 individuals were taken into custody, with 11 officially arrested on various charges. One protester faces felony assault charges after allegedly throwing a wooden pallet that struck an officer.

In response to the allegations, an NYPD spokesperson denied any collaboration with federal agents during the protest, stating, “The NYPD was not in coordination with today’s federal operation and does not conduct civil immigration enforcement, period.” However, sources indicate Commissioner Tisch expressed disapproval of the police’s handling of the incident to FBI Director Kash Patel.

Activist Jay Walker criticized the lack of a timely statement from city officials, saying, “New Yorkers do not feel safe right now. They are living in fear.” He emphasized that the real terror comes from ICE, not from those peacefully protesting for human rights.

As the situation continues to develop, the community is left grappling with the implications of these events. Advocates are urging individuals to remain vigilant and united against what they see as an unjust response from law enforcement.

Next Steps: The situation remains fluid, with more demonstrations expected in the coming days. Advocates are calling for further action to support those arrested and to ensure that the rights of all New Yorkers are protected.

Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story as it unfolds.