Manhattan DA Announces Additional Charges in NYC CBP Officer Shooting
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced additional charges against two suspects in the shooting of an off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer during an armed robbery in New York City. The suspects, Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez and Christhian Aybar-Berroa, are now facing a range of charges, including attempted murder in the first and second degrees, assault, attempted robbery, robbery, and criminal possession of a weapon. The charges were announced at a joint press conference, where officials highlighted the seriousness of the incident and the collaborative efforts between federal and local authorities to bring the suspects to justice.
The Shooting Incident
The off-duty CBP officer was shot in the face and forearm during the incident that occurred in New York City’s Fort Washington Park, near the George Washington Bridge. The suspects approached the officer and his friend, who were enjoying a summer evening, on a moped. One of the men got off the scooter, displayed a firearm, and confronted the officer, leading to the shooting. The officer managed to return fire, striking one of the suspects and causing him to flee the scene. Despite sustaining serious injuries, the officer survived and is expected to make a full recovery. The officer’s bravery in the face of violence has been widely acknowledged by both local and federal officials.
Federal Charges & Immigration Status
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that both suspects were illegal immigrants with prior criminal records. They are also involved in ongoing investigations, according to the NYPD. Ricky Patel, special agent in charge for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in New York, stated that the attack constituted a threat against the broader law enforcement community. He emphasized that the suspects targeted an officer, which posed a threat to all law enforcement personnel.
Broader Investigations
Law enforcement sources indicate that the suspects involved in the shooting and attempted robbery are believed to be the same individuals linked to an armed robbery in Leominster, Massachusetts, in February. In that incident, a store owner was bound with duct tape and held at gunpoint, with two firearms stolen. The connection between the two incidents highlights the ongoing efforts by federal and local authorities to track down and apprehend individuals involved in violent crimes. The case also underscores the challenges faced in addressing crimes committed by individuals with complex legal status.
Political Reactions
The incident has sparked political debate with both Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and former Border Patrol official Tom Homan visiting the injured officer in the hospital. They criticized sanctuary city policies, aligning with the administration’s stance on stronger immigration enforcement. President Donald Trump also commented on the incident, criticizing the current administration for allowing illegal immigrants into the country and praising the officer’s bravery. Local officials, including Mayor Eric Adams, have distanced themselves from the federal immigration policies, emphasizing the need for law enforcement to follow the rules in place.
Collaboration Praised
Mayor Adams concluded by praising the swift collaboration between law enforcement agencies, which led to the arrest of the suspects. He emphasized that the officer’s courage and the joint efforts of agencies played a crucial role in taking violent criminals off the streets. The case has highlighted the importance of inter-agency cooperation and the critical role of law enforcement in maintaining public safety, regardless of the individuals involved.