Video shows NYC officers in altercation with 14-year-old girl handcuffed for selling fruit in park

Shocking Encounter in Manhattan’s Battery Park

Over the weekend, a disturbing incident unfolded in Manhattan’s Battery Park, where New York City officers were seen attempting to arrest a woman and a teenage girl involved in selling fruit. A video of the altercation was widely shared on social media, capturing the tense situation that occurred around 2 p.m. on Sunday.

Unfolding of Events

The video, filmed by a passerby, showed a woman in a yellow jersey being held by a NYC Parks Enforcement Patrol officer on one arm and a New York City Police Department officer on the other. Additionally, a young girl in a pink shirt and leggings was being restrained by a Parks Enforcement officer, leading to a heated confrontation.

Amidst the commotion, bystanders voiced their disapproval, shouting phrases like “What are you doing?” and “Let her go!” Multiple individuals tried to intervene, resulting in a chaotic scene with conflicting actions.

Intervention and Fallout

As the officers attempted to move the girl, two passersby stepped in and ended up in a physical struggle with the Parks Enforcement officer. Eventually, the girl was freed from his grasp and the situation escalated, leaving the officer questioning the lack of support.

Official Response and Investigation

Following the incident, a 32-year-old woman and a 14-year-old girl were issued legal actions by NYC Parks, although their identities remain undisclosed. The authorities clarified that the enforcement actions were taken due to the unauthorized sale of perishable items in the park.

Mayor Eric Adams addressed the incident during a press conference, acknowledging the challenges faced by migrants in finding legal work opportunities. He emphasized the need for a dignified solution to support individuals striving for self-sufficiency.

Community Outcry and Advocacy

The video sparked outrage, prompting responses from advocacy groups like the NYC Street Vendor Justice Coalition, who condemned the aggressive treatment of the street vendor family. They highlighted the difficulties faced by immigrant communities in obtaining vendor permits, leading to a cycle of injustices.

The coalition’s statement concluded with a sobering remark, indicating that such incidents are unfortunately not uncommon and shed light on the systemic challenges faced by marginalized populations in urban settings.