City officials have called for heightened security measures at New York City-run migrant shelters following the shocking claims made by accused cop shooter Bernardo Raul Castro Mata. Mata, a former resident of an East Elmhurst shelter, alleged that the violent Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua, is smuggling guns into the facilities using food delivery bags. While these claims remain unverified, they have sparked concerns among lawmakers from various political backgrounds.
Councilwoman Joann Ariola, a Republican from Queens, criticized the reliance on an honor system and argued that violent criminals are taking advantage of the lenient system in place. She emphasized the lack of respect shown towards both the police and the citizen security guards responsible for overseeing the shelters.
The city’s migrant shelters have been plagued by security problems, including stabbings, brawls, attacks on law enforcement officers, and exorbitant hourly rates for security guards. Many locals and politicians assert that the lawlessness within the shelters is spilling over into neighboring communities, a claim supported by the NYPD’s crackdown on migrant moped gangs involved in thefts.
Councilman Robert Holden, a Democrat from Queens, labeled Mata as the “poster child” against open borders and sanctuary city status. He called for stricter vetting processes for individuals entering the country and suggested the implementation of metal detectors in the shelters.
Councilwoman Vickie Paladino, also a Republican from Queens, agreed that increased security in the shelters is necessary but stressed the importance of empowering US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Mayor Eric Adams had previously expressed support for this idea.
However, more progressive council members argued that the issue lies with the low-level security measures in the migrant shelters rather than border policies. Councilwoman Diana Ayala, a Democrat representing Manhattan and the Bronx, highlighted the need for metal detectors in these facilities and claimed that some migrants were gaining unauthorized entry by climbing fences and using backdoors.
Councilman Chris Banks, a Democrat from Brooklyn, urged the city to focus on implementing effective solutions rather than getting distracted by debates on border policy and sanctuary status.
City officials have clarified that Mata’s claims about guns being smuggled into migrant shelters have not been verified. They have emphasized that ongoing training is being provided to security guards at all shelter sites, and anyone violating the code of conduct or posing a threat to others will be immediately discharged.
1 Response
1. Increase surveillance: Install additional security cameras both inside and outside the migrant shelters to monitor any suspicious activity. This will help deter potential criminals and provide evidence in case of any incidents.
2. Strengthen access control: Implement strict access control measures, such as requiring identification cards or biometric authentication for both staff and residents. This will help ensure that only authorized individuals are allowed entry into the shelters.
3. Conduct thorough background checks: Prioritize conducting thorough background checks on all staff members working at the