A man armed with a knife seriously injured two judges in Manhattan, narrowly missing vital arteries. This incident highlights his long-standing hostility toward law enforcement.
Jonathan Wall, who alarmed two officers with video footage during proceedings at Manhattan Crown Court on Monday, has lodged over seven complaints against the NYPD, as noted by law enforcement officials.
The complaints are being examined by the city’s independent police oversight group, a private body that reviews numerous grievances against NYPD personnel.
Sources say that most of Wall’s complaints have not been substantiated and he is “not considered a victim” in this situation.
Wall previously filed a $1 million lawsuit against the NYPD and over 20 officers in 2023, claiming he was falsely arrested for trespassing.
This lawsuit is currently pending in the state Supreme Court.
“He’s been a recurring issue for us over the past couple of years,” remarked a law enforcement source.
Wall is so familiar to court officials at 100 Center St., the location of the recent stabbing, that staff there had attempted to alert others about his approach that day.
However, officials were unable to communicate the warning in time, sources indicated.
“He cleaned off his shoes on the mat,” one source described. “He strolled over to the table, fiddling with his belongings.”
But within moments, Wall unexpectedly rushed through a metal detector, brandishing a knife and getting dangerously close to an officer.
He then redirected his attack toward a second officer.
The surveillance footage reveals that Wall made multiple stabbing motions, causing a serious neck injury to the officer, according to sources.
Both officers were hospitalized but are now recovering at home.
“They understand the gravity of the situation, which is concerning for everyone,” a source noted.
Wall, who had no scheduled business at the courthouse that day, reportedly shouted phrases like “give me freedom, give me death” while confronting personnel, as described in court.
He faces charges related to assault and attempted murder while being held at Rikers Island.
“He should not see the light of day for a long time,” officials expressed.
As of now, there has been no response from Wall’s attorney.
