NYC Council Member Arrested During Eviction Protest

NYC Council Member Chi Ossé Arrested at Eviction Protest

New York City Council member Chi Ossé was arrested and taken into police custody Tuesday morning while protesting an eviction in Brooklyn. The incident occurred as Ossé was attempting to assist a constituent facing removal from her home. Ossé stated he was pushed to the ground and handcuffed, hitting his head on the pavement.

Constituent Fights Eviction Amid Deed Theft Concerns

The protest centered on the eviction of Carmela Charrrington from her Bed-Stuy home. Charrrington alleges that her family was a victim of deed theft, where bad actors allegedly tricked her elderly father and stole the property title.

Her family has lived in the building for over 60 years and believes the actions leading to the eviction were illegal. Ossé had been working with Charrrington to challenge the eviction in court.

Mayor Promises Action on Deed Theft

News of Council member Ossé’s arrest reached Mayor Eric Adams during an unrelated press conference. Adams expressed concern upon hearing the details and promised to investigate the incident.

He reiterated his campaign pledge to make deed theft a top housing priority for his administration. The mayor’s office later stated that Adams had seen concerning footage of the arrest and was in contact with the Police Commissioner about the situation.

NYPD Defends Actions Amid Scrutiny

The New York Police Department stated that Ossé’s arrest was in line with department guidelines for obstruction of governmental administration. Police claimed Ossé resisted officers and pushed past them while attempting to block the eviction.

The situation began when city marshals and the Sheriff’s office requested police backup, stating protesters were preventing them from carrying out a court-ordered eviction. Ossé announced his intention to file a misconduct complaint, describing the physical altercation.

Council Leadership Weighs In

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams also spoke with Police Commissioner Edward Caban, urging for Ossé’s immediate release. She had also spoken with Commissioner Tisch. While the NYPD defended its actions, the incident drew scrutiny from fellow lawmakers and the public.

Deed Theft on the Rise, Advocates Say

Ossé and other City Council members highlighted that deed theft is a growing problem in New York City, reportedly increasing by 300%. They argue this crime disproportionately affects seniors and communities of color, stripping residents of their homes and generational wealth. Ossé mentioned traveling to Albany to pressure the governor for stronger protections for homeowners, particularly Black homeowners.

Governor’s Office Clarifies Meeting Invitation

A source close to Governor Kathy Hochul clarified Ossé’s attendance at a meeting in Albany. The council member was invited to meet with the governor’s housing team, not the governor herself.

A spokesperson for Hochul stated that the governor is a strong advocate for her community and is relieved Ossé is no longer in custody. The spokesperson added that no New Yorker should be cheated out of their home.

Next Steps for Council Member Ossé

Council member Ossé plans to file a misconduct complaint against the officers involved in his arrest. He is also expected to continue advocating against deed theft and supporting constituents facing eviction. The Police Department is reviewing the incident following concerns raised by the Mayor and City Council leadership.

Source: New York City Council member Chi Ossé arrested during protest (YouTube)