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NYC Mayor Faces Backlash for Downplaying “Snowball Fight” That Injured Officers
New York City, NY – A recent incident in Washington Square Park, where NYPD officers were struck by snowballs, has sparked a heated debate, with Mayor Zohran Mamdani drawing criticism for labeling the event a “snowball fight” despite officers sustaining injuries.
On Monday, multiple NYPD officers responding to a call about a large, unruly group in Washington Square Park were reportedly hit in the head with snowballs. The incident resulted in several officers requiring hospitalization for facial lacerations.
Following the assault, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch released a statement condemning the behavior as “disgraceful” and “criminal,” confirming that detectives are actively investigating.
However, during a press conference on Tuesday, Mayor Mamdani offered a different perspective. After reviewing videos of the incident, he told reporters, “it looked like kids at a snowball fight.” The Mayor further stated his belief that the individuals involved should not face charges for assault on a police officer.
This stance has ignited strong reactions from various police unions and public figures. The Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA) emphasized that while some might dismiss the incident as “harmless kids throwing snowballs,” the deliberate targeting of uniformed officers performing their duties constitutes assault.
SBA President Vincent Vallelong stated, “The behavior of the people throwing the snowballs, many of whom are believed to be NYU students, was reckless and unlawful, and put the lives and safety of others at risk.” He added that those who threw snow and ice “crossed a clear line,” and questioned why the Mayor, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, and NYU had not condemned the attack.
The Police Benevolent Association of the City of New York called the incident “unacceptable and outrageous,” demanding that the individuals involved be identified, arrested, and charged. The Detectives’ Endowment Association echoed these sentiments, with President Scott Munro calling it “a deliberate, outrageous, and dangerous attack.”
He urged Mayor Mamdani and District Attorney Bragg to ensure all responsible individuals are prosecuted, stating, “No free pass. No get out of jail free card.”
Amidst the growing criticism, Mayor Mamdani later issued a statement on social media, urging New Yorkers to treat officers with “respect.” He wrote, “Officers, like all city workers, have been out in a historic blizzard, keeping New Yorkers safe and cars moving.
Treat them with respect. If anyone’s catching a snowball, it’s me.”
Several prominent figures, including Rep. Nicole Malliotakis and former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, have also pressured the mayor to unequivocally denounce the assault.
Rep. Malliotakis urged, “@NYCMayor and every elected official in our city should denounce this juvenile attack on our #NYPD.
Back the blue and hold those who disrespect them accountable.” Cuomo criticized Mamdani for allegedly setting a tone of disrespect towards law enforcement.
Former NYPD Chief of Department John Chell called the incident a “f—ing disgrace” and expressed his expectation of a “strong condemnation” from the mayor. He also suggested a robust police presence in the park moving forward, advocating for “very forceful arrests” if officers are targeted again.
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the snowball attacks. The Mayor’s office has not yet responded to requests for further comment.