In a recent incident on August 1st, two police officers from the New York City Police Department’s (NYPD) 5th and 7th precincts were attacked by a suspect with a gun while in pursuit of a robbery suspect. Fortunately, both officers were not critically injured and received medical treatment without major complications. Following the shooting, New York City Council Member Christopher Marte, who represents the Chinatown district, issued a statement on the same day praising the bravery and dedication of law enforcement officers and condemning violence.
Council Member Marte expressed in his statement, “In this challenging time, I express my heartfelt condolences to the injured officers and their families. My thoughts and prayers are with them during their recovery. The courage and dedication shown by law enforcement officers in the face of danger deserve commendation, and violence against them is completely unacceptable.”
Marte stated that he is confident that the justice system will conduct a thorough investigation into the violent crime, stating that “the suspect’s actions must be held accountable to ensure justice is served.”
“We must come together as a community to oppose such senseless acts of violence. We must continue to support and respect the sacrifices made by the police who work tirelessly to ensure our safety,” Marte added. He also mentioned that his office will continue to collaborate with the police department and relevant government agencies to ensure community safety.
The two injured officers are Sergeant Christopher Leap, 34 years old from the 7th precinct, who suffered a graze wound from a bullet. He was discharged and returned home on the evening of the 1st amidst cheers from the police commissioner and colleagues. The other officer who was shot is Sergeant Carl Johnson, 43 years old from the 5th precinct, who remained hospitalized for observation that night.
The two officers responded to a robbery at 91 Canal Street, second floor, in Chinatown on the afternoon of the 1st, but the robber had already fled. Police stated that there was a mahjong table at the scene, indicating possible gambling activity. When the officers were about to arrest the robber in the Lower East Side of Manhattan on Eldridge Street, the suspect, identified as 22-year-old gang member Joshua Dorsett, pulled out a firearm and opened fire towards the officers.
Authorities revealed that the suspect shot the 5th precinct officer in the groin and grazed the leg of Sergeant Leap. The suspect, Joshua Dorsett, is a 22-year-old gang member.