Migrant Pleads Guilty in Infamous Times Square Brawl that Left Cops Injured
Accused Attacker Sentenced to a Year Behind Bars
Ulises Bohorquez, a 22-year-old Venezuelan migrant, pleaded guilty on Monday afternoon to his involvement in a Times Square brawl with police last year. He was subsequently sentenced to a year behind bars.
Background of the Incident
The massive brawl occurred on January 27, 2024, outside a shelter in the Candler Building at 220 West 42nd Street. A group of new arrivals was caught on surveillance video brawling with cops, with police reporting that they were “acting disorderly” and blocking pedestrian traffic.
A brawl broke out when officers attempted to send them on their way. After things turned violent, the cops wrestled with one man, trying to place him in cuffs. Video footage showed cops getting kicked and pulled by the group, with the officers being battered across their bodies and heads.
Investigation and Arrests
The incident drew nationwide attention and left top police officials enraged. Eight people were arrested in connection to the shocking attack, with Bohorquez being the eighth person to be apprehended. According to court documents, Bohorquez originally stated that he was under the influence of cocaine and marijuana when the altercation erupted.
However, he changed his story on Monday and withdrew his original plea. Bohorquez pleaded guilty to the attack and was sentenced to a year in state prison, a decision that was applauded by the police union.
Reaction and Sentencing
“This sentence is just one more step towards justice in this case, and it sends exactly the message we need: if you attack a New York City police officer, you’ll do real time,” said PBA President Patrick Hendry.
Bohorquez’s sentencing comes as another migrant involved in the brawl, Darwin Andres Gomez-Izquiel, was arrested on October 10 by the Enforcement and Removal Operations New York after being released early. Gomez-Izquiel was convicted on July 29 for his participation in the Times Square assault.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Ulises Bohorquez marks a significant milestone in the investigation and prosecution of the infamous Times Square brawl. The incident served as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting law enforcement and the consequences of violent behavior. As the city continues to grapple with the challenges of policing and public safety, this case serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and justice.
FAQs
Q: What was the nature of the altercation?
A: The altercation began when police attempted to disperse a group of migrants who were “acting disorderly” and blocking pedestrian traffic. The situation escalated into a violent brawl, with the officers being attacked and injured.
Q: How many people were arrested in connection to the incident?
A: Eight people were arrested in connection to the incident, with Ulises Bohorquez being the eighth person to be apprehended.
Q: What was Bohorquez’s original defense?
A: Bohorquez originally stated that he was under the influence of cocaine and marijuana when the altercation erupted, and claimed that he saw the cops attacking another person and stepped in to defend them.
Q: What was the outcome of Bohorquez’s sentencing?
A: Bohorquez pleaded guilty to the attack and was sentenced to a year in state prison.
