New York Candidate Comments on ICE Shooting Incident

Darializa Avila Chevalier, a Democratic congressional candidate from New York, expressed her views during a conversation with Twitch streamer Hasan Piker, stating that it “doesn’t even matter” that a man shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer had a criminal background.

This discussion arose following the shooting of Oscar Belgal, a 28-year-old national from the Dominican Republic who, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is in the U.S. illegally. Authorities reported that Belgal was shot during a targeted operation designed to arrest him after he allegedly did not follow commands from officers.

Piker and Chevalier criticized both state and federal officials for emphasizing Belgal’s previous criminal record, arguing that his past actions did not warrant the force used against him.

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch noted during a press conference that Belgal had moved his vehicle forward prior to the incident, which led to at least one officer firing seven shots, hitting him below his left ear. Tisch mentioned that Belgal had prior offenses including arrests for robbery and the illegal sale of drugs.

The DHS indicated that Belgal had a history that included grand larceny, as well as past arrests for assault, robbery, drug possession, and carrying weapons. They also stated he is linked to the Trinitarios street gang.

Piker raised concerns about the narrative surrounding Belgal’s criminal history questioning the justification for the ICE operation based on that information.

Chevalier shared her frustration regarding Tisch’s comments, indicating she had to revisit the statements. She firmly stated, “to me, it doesn’t even matter.” Her reaction seemed fueled by anger, emphasizing the need to focus on the broader implications rather than merely Belgal’s past.

Piker added that even if Belgal had committed serious crimes, it would not justify the shooting by ICE. Chevalier echoed this sentiment, pointing out that Tisch should focus on holding ICE accountable rather than vilifying Belgal.

In response to inquiries, Chevalier’s campaign was unresponsive to requests for comments.

An NYPD spokesperson clarified that Tisch was providing factual updates during press briefings, including the criminal history of individuals involved, as this is a common query from media outlets.

The New York State Republican Committee criticized Chevalier’s remarks, suggesting they reflect a deeper problem within the Democratic Party. David Laska, the NY GOP communications director, stated that the facts of the case show that Belgal, described as an illegal immigrant and gang member, resisted arrest and was treated with lawful force by ICE agents. He referred to Chevalier’s association with Piker as indicative of a more extreme stance within the party.

Overall, the incident stirred significant political reactions and raised questions about law enforcement practices concerning immigration enforcement.