Horchata Papi

SAY HIS NAME: Richard Williams (83) He just passed away from his injuries after an illegal with 15 prior arrests shoved him onto subway tracks He was a veteran and a grandfather

A member of an offshoot of the Jewish Defense League — designated by the FBI as a "known violent extremist organization" — was allegedly building explosive devices to target the home of Nerdeen Kiswani in a chilling act of political violence. The defendant reportedly planned to flee to Israel following the attack. This comes amid an alarming rise in threats and violence across the country targeting Palestinian human rights advocates. I am thankful that the NYPD and FBI thwarted this plot, which could have endangered Nerdeen’s life and those of other New Yorkers. Let me be clear: We will not tolerate violent extremism in our city. No one should face violence for their political beliefs or their advocacy. I am relieved that Nerdeen is safe. Our city must meet hate with solidarity, and meet fear with an unshakable commitment to justice and to one another.

I am deeply troubled to learn that a person in custody died on Rikers Island this morning. My thoughts are with their loved ones, who are now facing an unimaginable loss. Transparency and accountability are essential, and the Department of Correction is conducting an investigation. While we do not yet know the cause of death, too many have died on Rikers Island for far too long. Rikers must close, and we will pursue every avenue to do so as quickly as possible.