WNYPD Statement on Federal Arrest Sparks Online Backlash

A Facebook post published by the West New York Police Department (WNYPD) on Sunday, November 23, denying involvement in a federal arrest on 62nd Street, has ignited a wave of public criticism. As of this writing, the post has received 271 likes and 563 comments, with a majority expressing disapproval.

In the statement, WNYPD clarified that one of its officers encountered the scene “as the enforcement action was already underway” and “did not assist, participate, or take any action in the incident.” The department added that it had not been notified of the operation and contacted HudPost to address what it called inaccuracies in the outlet’s initial coverage. HudPost promptly corrected the article and marked it with a formal correction notice.

Despite the clarification, the department’s message drew sharp responses from users, many of whom questioned the need for a statement at all. “Why the press release?” wrote Mark Zacchini. “Wait till you get all the information then release a proper press release that has all the details included.”

Several commenters expressed concern that WNYPD was distancing itself from cooperating with other law enforcement agencies. “I would hope you don’t tell your officers not to assist ANOTHER officer if they needed help,” wrote Frank Fiore. WNYPD replied, “They didn’t ask for assistance and we were not aware they were in our town.”

Others speculated about the nature of the federal operation. “One of the officers’ vests said DEA on it,” noted Marco D. Navarro. “This most likely is drug crime related with ERO.” The department responded, “You may be right; we just don’t have information on the specifics of their enforcement action.”

The comment section also reflected deep divisions over immigration enforcement. “DEA and all federal agencies have been deputized to do immigration enforcement,” wrote Maya Pontón Aronoff, while others criticized perceived political motivations behind WNYPD’s distancing. “Nice pandering,” one user wrote, while another remarked, “You’re trying to please the wrong people.”

Some comments defended the department’s restraint, pointing to the lack of a formal request for assistance. “Why should [the officer] have assisted if assistance wasn’t needed or requested?” asked Isaac Rodriguez.