Mamdani’s Controversial Mentor Choice

Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani has selected Mysonne Linen, a rapper with a troubled past who spent seven years in prison for armed robbery, to guide him on criminal justice matters.

Linen, now 49, is a former inmate from the Bronx who was convicted of two felony robberies in the late 1990s. He will join the transition team’s “Criminal Legal System” committee as Mamdani prepares to assume office next month.

“This reflects our long-standing commitment to advocating for Black and brown communities and our knowledge in areas like gun violence prevention and criminal justice reform,” Linen posted on Instagram recently. “We’re working on something different.”

In 1999, Linen faced charges related to gang activity that involved robbing taxi drivers in the Bronx, according to reports from that time.

His conviction coincided with the impending release of his debut album through Def Jam Recordings.

The Bronx Prosecutor’s Office indicated that Linen’s crew was responsible for the robbery of Joseph Exili on June 8, 1997, and a subsequent armed robbery of Francisco Monsanto on March 31, 1998. Despite his denial of involvement, Linen served a sentence of up to 25 years before changing his path to become a community activist following his release.

Mamdani’s selection of Linen has sparked concerns, particularly given his controversial remarks about police and Israel during his campaign for mayor. As the former state lawmaker gets ready to take office, reactions have intensified.

“Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani just appointed a convicted armed robber to shape New York City’s crime policy,” a group expressed on social media, criticizing the choice. “This is just the beginning; things are about to become more chaotic.”

The commentary also featured a photo of Linen alongside Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan.

No comments have been provided by representatives for either Linen or Mamdani in response to inquiries.