Former NY Governor Paterson and Stepson Assaulted, Two Minors Arrested
Two boys, aged 12 and 13, were arrested for assaulting former New York Governor David Paterson and his stepson on Manhattan's Upper East Side. The incident occurred during an evening walk, resulting in minor injuries.
On Friday, October 4, 2024, around 8:30 p.m., an unexpected incident occurred on Manhattan's Upper East Side, one of the city's most affluent neighborhoods. David Paterson, the former Governor of New York, and his stepson, Anthony Sliwa, were assaulted during an evening stroll. The following day, law enforcement apprehended two minors in connection with the attack.
Paterson, aged 70, and Sliwa, 20, sustained minor facial injuries and received treatment at a local medical facility. Paterson, who is legally blind due to optic atrophy, also experienced bodily harm. The two young suspects, aged 12 and 13, face charges of gang assault. Their identities remain undisclosed due to their minor status.
Authorities believe at least five individuals were involved in the altercation and are seeking public assistance to gather more information about the incident. The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement working to identify additional suspects.
David Paterson, a Democrat, served as the 55th Governor of New York from 2008 to 2010. He assumed office following the resignation of Governor Eliot Spitzer, becoming the state's first African American governor. Paterson's political career spans decades, including service in the New York State Senate from 1985 to 2006 and as Lieutenant Governor from 2007 to 2008.
Paterson provided his account of the events, stating that his stepson initially encountered some of the assailants while walking the family dog. Sliwa warned them to cease climbing a fire escape on Second Avenue, threatening to alert the authorities. Later, when Paterson and Sliwa went for a walk together, they encountered the group again, leading to an argument and subsequent attack.
Sliwa, the son of Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels anti-crime organization, reportedly defended against multiple attackers. He sustained a facial laceration requiring several stitches. The Guardian Angels, established in 1979, is a non-profit group dedicated to unarmed crime prevention.
Throughout his career, Paterson has been a strong advocate for disability rights. His unique perspective as a visually impaired individual in high office has made him a trailblazer in American politics. In fact, he was the first visually impaired person to address the Democratic National Convention.
Paterson's tenure as governor was marked by significant achievements, including the implementation of same-sex marriage legislation in New York. After leaving office, he has remained active in public life, working as a radio talk show host and professor. He has also authored an autobiography titled "Black, Blind, & In Charge: A Story of Visionary Leadership and Overcoming Adversity."
This incident has drawn attention to safety concerns in urban areas, even in typically secure neighborhoods like the Upper East Side. It also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by public figures and the importance of community vigilance in preventing such attacks.
As the investigation continues, this event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of urban life and the need for continued efforts to ensure public safety for all residents and visitors in New York City.
