Two teenagers have been arrested for assaulting former New York Governor David Paterson and his stepson in Manhattan, leaving both men injured and the community shocked.
At a Glance
- Two boys, ages 12 and 13, were arrested and charged with gang assault
- Paterson and his stepson, Anthony Chester Sliwa, were attacked while walking their dog
- The incident began when Sliwa confronted teens climbing a fire escape
- Both victims required hospital treatment, with Sliwa needing five stitches
- Paterson expressed gratitude for police response and public support
Teens Arrested in Shocking Attack on Former Governor
In a disturbing turn of events, former New York Governor David Paterson and his stepson, Anthony Chester Sliwa, fell victim to a violent assault on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The incident, which occurred during an evening dog walk, has resulted in the arrest of two juvenile suspects, ages 12 and 13, who now face charges of gang assault.
The altercation began when Sliwa admonished a group of teens attempting to climb a fire escape, warning them of potential police involvement. This confrontation escalated dramatically when the youths returned with additional individuals, including adults, leading to a physical assault on both Paterson and Sliwa.
So much New York going on here. Our blind former governor is attacked after his stepson confronts 5 miscreants going up a fire escape. Patterson's stepson is Anthony Sliwa, the son of Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa. What?! Small town we got here. https://t.co/N4xrGAzI83
— Peter Moskos (@PeterMoskos) October 6, 2024
Injuries and Aftermath
The attack left both victims bruised and battered, necessitating hospital treatment. Sliwa’s injuries were particularly severe, requiring five stitches to his lip. Paterson, who served as New York’s governor from 2008 to 2010, reported being “punched in the face a couple of times” and struck in the shoulder. “I got punched in the face a couple of times and I got punched in the shoulder,” Paterson said, “but the person who punched me on the shoulder, I threw them against the McDonald’s window myself.”
The former governor’s account of the incident reveals a chaotic scene involving multiple assailants, including adults. “[A woman] threw the first punches in the actual fight and another adult was the second person to throw punches,” he explained, highlighting the complexity of the situation.
Swift Police Action and Community Response
Law enforcement acted quickly, with the two juvenile suspects turning themselves in at the 23rd Precinct less than 24 hours after the attack, accompanied by their parents. This swift resolution has been met with appreciation from Paterson and his family.
“Governor Paterson and his family are glad to see the suspects turned themselves in. We hope that the young people involved learn something from this unfortunate encounter,” a statement from Paterson’s spokesperson said. “The Governor is grateful to see the kids’ parents hold them to account and would also like to thank the NYPD for their strong work.”
The incident has sparked discussions about youth crime and public safety in New York City. However, Paterson’s spokesperson has emphasized that this event should not be used for personal or political gain, instead focusing on the importance of accountability and community support.
As the investigation continues, authorities are seeking public assistance in identifying any remaining suspects involved in the attack. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of urban crime and the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement.
