Ian MacAllen

Today it is snowballs. Tomorrow it could be rocks, bottles, or worse. Statement from SBA President Vincent Vallelong regarding the attacks on NYPD Police Officers in Washington Square Park. Dear Fellow Sergeant, We cannot condemn strongly enough the recent disgraceful and dangerous attacks on NYPD Police Officers while responding to a 911 call in Washington Square Park. While some people may attempt to dismiss this incident as college hijinks or harmless kids throwing snowballs, the deliberate targeting of uniformed Police Officers by hurling objects at them while they perform their lawful duties constitutes an assault. The behavior of the people throwing the snowballs, many of whom are believed to be NYU students, was reckless and unlawful, and put the lives and safety of others at risk. Police Officers exercise extraordinary restraint every day under increasingly challenging circumstances. They are tasked with maintaining public safety in crowded public spaces, often while facing hostility simply for wearing the uniform. When individuals choose to turn a park into a launching ground for attacks on police, they cross a clear line. Today it is snowballs. Tomorrow it could be rocks, bottles, or worse. No worker in this city should be subjected to having objects thrown at them while they do their job — least of all the men and women who run toward danger to protect others. This conduct emboldens further disorder and undermines respect for the rule of law. Perhaps a bigger question is why the mayor and other elected officials were so silent after this incident occurred? Why did we hear nothing from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg or NYU officials? We call on city leadership, prosecutors, and the courts to treat these incidents with the seriousness they deserve. Those who assault Police Officers in any way must face appropriate consequences. Failing to do so sends the message that attacking an officer is acceptable behavior. It is not! The members of the NYPD will continue to serve and protect every New Yorker — even those who show them disrespect. But they deserve the full support of city officials and the public when they are so brazenly attacked. Fraternally, Vincent J. Vallelong President Sergeants Benevolent Association