Migrant Arrested for Theft After Assault on NYPD Cops
- Migrant Alexander Ayala arrested for stealing a woman's phone and credit card.
- Ayala had previously assaulted cops during a brawl at the Roosevelt.
- He was set free without bail after the recent theft arrest.
A 24-year-old migrant, Alexander Ayala, has been arrested for allegedly stealing a woman’s cellphone and credit card in Manhattan, only to be released without bail shortly after. The incident occurred on August 12, when Ayala reportedly snatched the victim's belongings near 11th Avenue and West 49th Street before fleeing on a bicycle. He later attempted to use the stolen credit card at a deli and a T-Mobile store, leading to charges of identity theft and possession of stolen property. Despite the serious nature of the charges, the Manhattan District Attorney's Office indicated that they were not bail-eligible, prompting the court to allow Ayala to be released on supervised release. Judge Simiyon Haniff granted Ayala the opportunity to walk free on his own recognizance, raising concerns among law enforcement and the public regarding the handling of repeat offenders. Ayala's legal troubles are compounded by a previous incident in May, where he was involved in a violent altercation at the Roosevelt Hotel shelter. During that event, he was charged with assault and obstruction after allegedly participating in a near-riot that resulted in injuries to two police officers. Following the May incident, prosecutors sought significant bail amounts, but Ayala's current release has reignited discussions about the judicial system's approach to migrant offenders. Ayala is scheduled to appear in court on September 12 to face charges related to both the assault on police officers and the recent theft.