The Manhattan District Attorney’s office has announced that charges against 22-year-old Jhoan Boada, initially accused of participating in a mob attack on two police officers in Times Square, have been dropped after he was misidentified. The actual suspect, Marcelino Estee, has been charged and arraigned on assault charges with a bail set at $15,000 cash. Boada’s lawyers had maintained his innocence throughout the investigation, denying his involvement in the assault. Surveillance footage showed a group of men attacking the police officers, with investigators initially believing Boada was the one in the black and white jacket seen kicking the cops. However, further investigation led to the identification of Estee as the actual perpetrator.
The attack, which led to the arrests of seven other migrants, sparked outrage in the city, with NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell condemning the assault and calling the attackers “cowards.” Governor Kathy Hochul also called for deportation of the perpetrators, emphasizing the need to protect law enforcement officers and the community. The case highlights the challenges of accurately identifying suspects in high-profile incidents and the importance of thorough investigations to ensure justice is served. The exoneration of Boada underscores the need for careful consideration and evidence before pursuing criminal charges.
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