In a stunning turn of events, charges against a migrant accused in the brutal beating of two New York City police officers have been dropped. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office announced on Friday that Jhoan Boada, initially accused of participating in the assault, had been “exonerated” after a thorough investigation, Fox News reports.
“Our investigation has revealed that Marcelino Estee, not Jhoan Boada, is the individual described in this complaint, committing this assault,” the DA’s office stated.
This revelation comes after Boada infamously flipped off reporters upon his release following the incident in Times Square. The attack, captured on surveillance and police bodycam footage, showed a group of migrants assaulting the officers near a shelter.
While Boada’s charges have been dropped, Marcelino Estee, the alleged perpetrator, awaits his arraignment. The Police Benevolent Association has been reached out to for comment regarding this development.
Initially, all migrant suspects were released without bail, sparking outrage and criticism toward Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. However, several suspects have since been rearrested and are now in custody.
One of the assaulted officers, NYPD Lieutenant Ben Kurian, will be present at President Biden’s upcoming State of the Union address, invited by U.S. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. Malliotakis emphasized the importance of supporting law enforcement and addressing illegal immigration issues.
“Our NYPD officers are on the front line every single day working to keep our streets safe, and unfortunately now they are being forced to deal with hundreds of violent crimes being committed by those in our country illegally,” Malliotakis stated.
She further emphasized the need for the Biden Administration to address border policies, stating, “The horrifying video of Lt. Kurian and his fellow officer being attacked by a mob in Times Square shed light on just how difficult our officers’ jobs have become.”
“I’m honored to have Lt. Kurian accompany me to the State of the Union to not only show support for New York City’s finest but to also bring attention to the need for the Biden Administration to end its dangerous border policies,” she added.
