David Paterson, the former governor of New York, and his 20-year-old stepson, Anthony Chester Sliwa, found themselves in a precarious situation during a stroll in Manhattan when they were allegedly assaulted by two teens, Breitbart reported.
The confrontation transitioned from a verbal disagreement to a physical altercation, inflicting injuries on both the ex-governor and his stepson.
The incident occurred on a Friday night as Paterson and Sliwa were walking the former governor's dog. Initially, they were approached by five unidentified youths near Second Avenue.
The situation began to unravel when the group of teenagers confronted Paterson and Sliwa, leading to an intense verbal exchange. Both parties found themselves in the midst of a heated conversation.
Sliwa, upon spotting three individuals climbing a fire escape, challenged them. He cautioned the teenagers that he would contact authorities.
This warning, however, served as a catalyst, quickly turning words into physical action. The initial verbal sparring grew more precarious and ultimately led to a clash.
As tensions mounted, the altercation resulted in physical injuries to both Paterson and his stepson. The former governor sustained head injuries while Sliwa suffered notable facial injuries.
The situation led to emergency medical treatment for both victims at a local hospital. The quick escalation of events caught them off guard and necessitated immediate care.
Paterson recounted the altercation with the group of teenagers, explaining that although there was an argument, the clash intensified to a dangerous level.
"The person that punched me on the shoulder, I threw them against the McDonald's window myself," Paterson described, reflecting on the chaotic scene.
Law enforcement swiftly responded to the scene following the altercation. Two children, aged 12 and 13, were apprehended on charges including third-degree gang assault.
The arrests highlight the serious nature of the incident and the decisive action taken by authorities to ensure justice.
Paterson's spokesperson expressed appreciation for the timely intervention by police and the public's support. Despite the ordeal, the former governor and his family remain focused on positive outcomes.
The spokesperson emphasized that Paterson and his wife, Mary, do not wish for the incident to be exploited for personal or political motives. Instead, they extend gratitude to law enforcement for their efficiency and to the community for its sympathy and encouragement.
