Over the weekend, a security guard at a Duane Reade in midtown Manhattan was severely stabbed by a knife-wielding thief who also threatened a shopper.
Just 12 hours later, a man was shot in the hand as his train arrived at the 86th Street and Lexington Avenue platform.
These incidents are indicative of the current state of Manhattan, where transit crime, assault, and shoplifting are on the rise.
Residents like Ermal Gura, 35, of Staten Island, feel the impact of these crimes, stating, “We have to watch our backs in the stores and on the subway.”
Unfortunately, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg seems to be falling short in addressing these issues.
While Bragg recently secured a guilty verdict against former President Donald Trump on multiple felony counts, he claimed to have done his job.
However, many New Yorkers living in fear do not feel that Bragg is fulfilling his duties as he should.
Despite being praised as a hero by the media, Bragg is being criticized for not prioritizing the prosecution of violent criminals and repeat offenders, including those involved in organized shoplifting rings.
Since Bragg took office, grand larceny crimes have increased by 33%.
A concerning fact is that while resources were allocated to pursue Trump, Bragg claims to lack the necessary resources to prosecute thieves effectively.
For instance, a suspect involved in multiple high-end heists was let off the hook with minimal consequences due to the DA’s office claiming they were overwhelmed with other cases.
This leniency towards criminals has led to public outrage and increased concerns about safety in Manhattan.
Despite the rise in crime, Bragg has been reluctant to recommend bail or incarceration even when legally permitted, contributing to a sense of lawlessness in the city.
Recent incidents, such as the release of four migrant teens charged with assaulting police officers without bail, have further fueled public discontent with Bragg’s handling of criminal cases.
Even former President Trump criticized Bragg for his decisions, highlighting a case where a store clerk faced murder charges for defending himself against an attacker.
Overall, there is a growing sentiment among New Yorkers that Bragg is more focused on his own image and legacy than on ensuring the safety of the community.
