Suspect turns himself in after torching 10 NYPD vehicles in Brooklyn
- Jakhi Lodgson-McCray allegedly torched 10 NYPD vehicles, resulting in damages exceeding $800,000.
- He turned himself in nearly five weeks after the incident, having been previously involved in protests facing multiple arrests.
- Authorities emphasize the serious nature of his actions, which are treated as federal crimes with potential long-term consequences.
In the United States, an incident of arson occurred in Brooklyn when Jakhi Lodgson-McCray allegedly set fire to ten New York City Police Department (NYPD) vehicles and a police trailer on June 12, 2025. The vehicles were parked in a secured lot when McCray was captured on surveillance video entering the area around 1 a.m. during which he ignited the fires. This act resulted in damages exceeding $800,000. Various authorities, including the NYPD and federal agencies, have expressed outrage over this act, emphasizing the danger posed by such reckless behavior in a populated area. Following his alleged crime, McCray was reported to have had prior run-ins with law enforcement, notably being arrested multiple times during protests in New York City earlier in May 2025, facing charges of resisting arrest and other related offenses. On June 13, the day after burning the police vehicles, he was apprehended again while allegedly lighting flags on fire outside the Israeli consulate. It was not until nearly five weeks later that McCray turned himself in to authorities on July 21, 2025. His attorney stated that his surrender was coordinated with law enforcement. With ongoing public safety concerns, U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella highlighted that such actions are not a form of protest, but rather a serious federal crime that will be prosecuted thoroughly. McCray now faces significant legal repercussions, including a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years if convicted. The incident has sparked discussions about the implications of violent actions during protests and the impact on law enforcement's ability to maintain safety and order. This case serves to galvanize efforts by law enforcement to detain individuals who exhibit violent behaviors that threaten public safety. McCray’s actions not only endangered law enforcement officers but also posed a risk to the surrounding community, instilling fear among residents. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case will likely serve as a focal point for discussions regarding crime rates, public safety, and accountability in protest actions.