On Saturday, January 15, 2011, at 8:39 PM, the Public Safety Department apprehended three males in connection to a Graffiti spree that had taken place in the Motorgate Parking Garage. The males were found in possession of paint cans and markers and claimed responsibility for 25% of the graffiti in the Motorgate, including fresh graffiti that had been found in stairwell BB. They were subsequently charged with Criminal Mischief: Graffiti, and Possession of Graffiti Instruments.

Patrols had been increased in the area of the Motorgate after several complaints of Graffiti had been reported. An exemplary job was performed by three PSD Officers and the NYPD Officer assigned to Roosevelt Island.

On Sunday, January 16, 2011, at 3:18 PM, a large group of males (approximately 8) was observed in front of 579 Main Street fighting. PSD Members responded to the location and the group dispersed in different directions. Two Island Residents identified one of the four fleeing subjects as being in possession of a handgun. Said individual had pointed it at them threatening to use it.

PSD Officers expeditiously pursued the subjects, who were observed heading south on Main Street. The subject fitting the description of the male with the gun was apprehended on the West Drive. During the apprehension, a silver handgun was secured by PSD. This subject was charged with two counts of Menacing, Criminal Possession of a Weapon and Disorderly Conduct. Three other subjects were also apprehended and charged with Disorderly Conduct. All four subjects arrested were Non-Island Residents.

These types of Incidents are never easy to deal with. The Officers were diligent in their response to the initial scene, and then in apprehending the four subjects, one who possessed a handgun. The bravery shown by our Public Safety Officers (who are unarmed) to pursue a male known to be in possession of a firearm is incredible. I salute them for a job well done.