Two uniformed court officers were injured in a stabbing at a Lower Manhattan courthouse, which authorities have characterized as a “targeted attack.” The incident occurred in the criminal court building on the south side of the structure on Monday morning, as reported by the state Office of Court Administration spokesman Al Baker. The attack, which took place before 9:45 am in the lobby area, resulted in injuries to at least two Court Officers, who were taken to ambulances for medical assistance. Several officers were quick to respond, subduing the assailant near a bank of magnetometers and disarming him before taking him into custody. The stabbings took place beyond the court’s metal detectors, raising concerns about the security measures in place at such high-profile locations. It is not yet clear how the suspect managed to carry the weapon past the security checkpoints. While the suspect is currently under investigation, details regarding the attack, the suspect’s identity, and the charges they may face have not yet been disclosed. The New York State Supreme Court Officers Association has indicated that one officer suffered more severe injuries to his face and neck, though both are expected to recover. A criminal investigation is ongoing, with officials seeking to determine the motive behind the attack.
The incident took place in the same building where notable trials, including those of Donald Trump and Daniel Penny, have previously occurred. Daniel Penny was found not guilty of criminally negligent homicide in the subway chokehold death of Jordan Neely in December 2024. The location of the attack has drawn significant attention due to its association with high-profile legal proceedings, which may have contributed to the suspect’s targeting. While the motive remains under investigation, the attack has raised questions about the safety and security of court facilities, especially those that host high-profile cases. The suspect, identified as a person of interest, is being interrogated by authorities, but no formal charges have been filed. Law enforcement is also reviewing surveillance footage from the scene to identify potential witnesses or additional details about the attack. The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the need for enhanced security at judicial institutions, particularly in the context of ongoing high-profile legal cases.
In the aftermath of the attack, the New York State Unified Court System has launched a criminal investigation to determine the circumstances of the assault and the suspect’s possible intentions. The authorities are emphasizing the importance of maintaining public safety and are working closely with the court system to review the security protocols. While there are currently no indications of a larger pattern or threat, the incident has led to increased scrutiny of security measures at such facilities. The court officers who were involved in subduing the suspect are being recognized for their swift response, which prevented further harm. The incident has also prompted calls for a more comprehensive review of courtroom security, especially in light of the high-profile cases that have taken place in the same building. The suspect’s motive remains unclear, and investigators are working to determine whether the attack was related to the legal proceedings that have occurred in the building. This incident underscores the potential risks associated with high-profile court cases and the need for heightened security measures to protect both staff and the public.