Ex-Governor and Stepson Assaulted in Shocking Street Brawl

Two teenagers have been arrested for assaulting former New York Governor David Paterson and his stepson during a chaotic street brawl in Manhattan.

At a Glance

Two boys, ages 12 and 13, were arrested and charged with gang assault.
The incident began when Paterson’s stepson confronted teens climbing a fire escape.
Paterson and his stepson were injured, with the latter requiring five stitches.
The former governor expressed gratitude for the swift police response and community support.

Teenagers Arrested in Attack on Former NY Governor

Two teenage boys, ages 12 and 13, have been arrested in connection with an assault on former New York Governor David Paterson and his stepson, Anthony Chester Sliwa. The incident occurred on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, leaving both victims injured. The 12-year-old faces second-degree gang assault charges, while the 13-year-old is charged with third-degree gang assault.

The altercation began when Sliwa confronted a group of teenagers he observed climbing a fire escape, threatening to notify the police. This initial encounter escalated into a violent clash later that evening, resulting in injuries to both Paterson and Sliwa.

So much New York going on here. Our blind former governor is attacked after his stepson confronts 5 miscreants going up a fire escape. Patterson's stepson is Anthony Sliwa, the son of Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa. What?! Small town we got here. https://t.co/N4xrGAzI83

— Peter Moskos (@PeterMoskos) October 6, 2024

Details of the Assault

The assault took place outside a McDonald’s restaurant while Paterson and Sliwa were walking their dog. Paterson recounted being “punched in the face a couple of times” and in the shoulder. In retaliation, he managed to throw one of his assailants against the McDonald’s window. Sliwa sustained more severe injuries, requiring five stitches in his lip.

Paterson, who served as New York’s governor from 2008 to 2010, noted that the situation escalated when additional individuals, including adults, joined the fray. He specifically mentioned that a woman “threw the first punches in the actual fight and another adult was the second person to throw punches.”

Swift Police Action and Community Response

The New York Police Department acted quickly, with the two juveniles turning themselves in at the 23rd Precinct less than 24 hours after the incident, accompanied by their parents. A third teenager was questioned but not charged after it was determined he did not participate in the attack.

“Governor Paterson and his family are glad to see the suspects turned themselves in. We hope that the young people involved learn something from this unfortunate encounter,” a statement from Paterson’s spokesperson said. “The Governor is grateful to see the kids’ parents hold them to account and would also like to thank the NYPD for their strong work.”

Paterson expressed gratitude for the swift police response and the support received from the community. His spokesperson emphasized that the incident should not be used for personal or political gain, highlighting the importance of addressing the underlying issues rather than politicizing the event.

As the investigation continues, authorities are seeking public assistance in identifying any remaining suspects involved in the altercation. This incident has reignited discussions about youth violence and public safety in New York City, with many calling for increased community engagement and preventative measures to curb such occurrences in the future.