A violent confrontation in Manhattan on Friday night left former New York Governor David Paterson, 70, and his 20-year-old stepson, Anthony Chester Sliwa, injured. The incident began when Sliwa, son of Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa, confronted three youths climbing a fire escape in the neighborhood.
According to Paterson, who is legally blind and served as governor from 2008 to 2010, the situation escalated when Sliwa threatened to call the police if the youths did not descend. The three adolescents allegedly became aggressive, and the confrontation continued when Sliwa encountered them again on Second Avenue, where they were joined by friends.
Paterson stated that two adults intervened, leading to a physical altercation. “The kids didn’t start the fight,” Paterson said. “They were arguing. Then, when the fight started, everyone got into the fight.” Paterson reported being punched in the face and on the shoulder, but also claimed to have thrown one of his attackers against a McDonald’s window.
Police arrested two juveniles, ages 12 and 13, who have been charged with third-degree gang assault. Paterson and his stepson were treated for their injuries at a local hospital. Paterson’s spokesperson, Sean Darcy, emphasized that the former governor hopes the incident will not be exploited for political purposes.
Paterson and his wife, Mary, have expressed gratitude for the prompt police response and the outpouring of support from people across the political spectrum. The incident highlights the complexities of urban violence and the need for community engagement to prevent such incidents.
