Introduction
Four individuals have been apprehended in connection with an alleged gang assault involving former New York Governor David Paterson and his stepson, Anthony Sliwa. The incident, which occurred on Second Avenue in Manhattan, involved two adults and two juveniles, aged 12 and 13. Authorities continue to search for an additional suspect. Here’s what happened and the current status of the case.
Details of the Assault Incident
The incident took place on Friday night, just after 8:30 PM, on Second Avenue between 96th and 97th Street in Manhattan. According to surveillance footage, five individuals were involved in the attack. The altercation reportedly began when Paterson’s stepson, Anthony Sliwa, noticed three people climbing a fire escape in the vicinity. Concerned about their actions, he confronted them, urging them to stop. Later that night, Paterson and Sliwa encountered the same group again when they returned outside.
The situation quickly escalated into a physical confrontation. Paterson reported that he fought back when one of the assailants struck him, retaliating by smashing the individual’s head against a nearby McDonald’s window and throwing them to the ground. Sliwa also defended himself; however, the attack intensified when he fell, with the group allegedly continuing to assault him while he was down.
Arrests and Charges Filed
Four suspects have been apprehended in connection with the assault. Among them are 34-year-old Diamond Mentor and 40-year-old Trevor Nurse, both of whom are employees of the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA). The two juveniles, aged 12 and 13, turned themselves in with their parents. Paterson expressed relief over the young suspects’ willingness to be accountable, noting his appreciation that their parents supported this decision.
Trevor Nurse faces multiple charges, including gang assault and assault on a victim aged 65 years or older. According to reports, he claimed he had been attacked by both Paterson and his stepson, alleging that they had punched him in the eye. The police are currently investigating these claims alongside the other circumstances surrounding the incident.
Ongoing Investigation
The police are continuing their investigation and search for the fifth suspect involved in the assault. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the remaining suspect, and it remains unclear whether they intend to press further charges against the individuals already in custody.
Surveillance footage from nearby buildings has played a crucial role in identifying the suspects and piecing together the events leading up to the confrontation. The footage reportedly confirms the presence of all five suspects, corroborating Paterson’s account of the assault. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
Public Reaction and Paterson’s Response
Paterson, who is now 70, has been candid about the ordeal. Speaking on “Good Day New York,” he admitted that he did not back down when first attacked. Despite the physical altercation, Paterson noted his disappointment over the attack on his stepson. Reflecting on the event, he expressed relief that the juvenile suspects had voluntarily turned themselves in with their parents, suggesting it may be a step toward accountability for them.
The public response to the assault has been one of shock and concern, especially given the involvement of minors in such a violent act. Paterson, a respected figure in New York politics, has received an outpouring of support, with many expressing relief that he and his stepson are recovering after the attack.
Conclusion
The alleged gang assault on former Governor David Paterson and his stepson has resulted in the arrest of four individuals, including two juveniles. While Paterson and Sliwa appear to be on the road to recovery, the investigation is ongoing, with authorities actively seeking the fifth suspect. This incident has not only highlighted concerns over public safety but has also raised questions about youth involvement in violent crimes. As the case unfolds, Paterson’s resilience and the community’s reaction underscore the serious nature of the event, and further developments are anticipated in the coming days.
