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14-Year-Old Arrested After Video Shows 11-Year-Old Girl Being Attacked In Brooklyn

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) — A 14-year-old boy is in custody after video of an attack on an 11-year-old girl in Brooklyn was posted on social media.

Parents in the community are outraged by the attack.

CBS2’s Janelle Burrell showed the footage to some on Wednesday, and they were sickened by what they saw.

“It’s disgusting,” one woman said.

“That’s just ridiculous,” Sheepshead Bay resident Mark Halpert added.

“It’s sad, really sad,” another woman said.

snap 14 Year Old Arrested After Video Shows 11 Year Old Girl Being Attacked In Brooklyn

A video posted on Snapchat shows three young men accosting and then attacking an 11-year-old girl in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, on Dec. 18, 2018. (Photo: CBS2)

The cellphone recording, which was posted on Snapchat, shows a group of three young men taunting and then attacking an 11-year-old girl, throwing water at her and then a water bottle, before punching her in the head multiple times.

“Yeah, not good. I don’t think anybody deserves that kind of harassment or beating,” Sheepshead Bay resident Rafael Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez said he has a daughter the same age.

“I think it’s terrible. I worry about my daughter every day,” he said.

Investigators said the incident happened as the girl was walking home at around 8 p.m. on Dec. 18, near the intersection of Nostrand Avenue and Avenue Y in Sheepshead Bay.

The girl’s mother told CBS2’s Burrell off camera that the 11-year-old was acquaintances with the boy who shot the video, adding that boy is the one who called the group of young men to harass her daughter.

The girl never told her mom what happened. Someone who the saw the video on Snapchat told the mother, who called police.

“I don’t understand why they would even do that. It doesn’t make any sense. I just hope someone would find these people,” Halpert said.

Investigators released images of the three young men they’re looking for and are asking for the public’s help in identifying them.

“It’s too crazy. I’m scared to let my child out. I always take her wherever she’s gotta go. She’s never by herself,” Sheepshead Bay resident Virginia Kocher said.

Police described one suspect as a Hispanic male, last seen wearing a gray hooded sweater, blue jeans and gray sneakers. Another was described as a black male, last seen wearing a burgundy sweater and dark colored pants.

The 14-year-old faces charges of reckless endangerment and assault.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish. The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website, on Twitter @NYPDTips or by texting them to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577.


Mayor De Blasio Delivers Annual ‘State Of The City’ Address

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – After a pair of major announcements earlier this week, Mayor Bill de Blasio delivered his annual State of the City address on Thursday.

Full Video: Mayor Bill de Blasio Delivers ‘State of the City’ Address

In the lead-up to his address, de Blasio introduced two new initiatives for his administration this year.

“It’s 2019, it’s time to treat people decently,” he said Wednesday.

WATCH: Hofstra Political Analyst Larry Levy Breaks Down Mayor De Blasio’s State Of The City

The mayor announced his goal of making New York City the first in the nation to require employers to provide paid vacation to both full-time and part-time employees.

Watch: Mayor Bill de Blasio Proposes Mandate On Paid Vacation Time 

“It’s time to value people, not just see them as cogs in the machine,” he said.

Most people who work 40 hours a week in the city already receive paid vacation time, but about half a million – around 11 percent of the workforce – do not.

De Blasio is pushing for those people to get 10 paid vacation days, on top of the five paid sick days they already receive.

It would impact businesses with more than five employees. Workers would have to be employed for four months to qualify.

The other proposal the mayor will talk about in his address is what he’s calling the “largest, most comprehensive plan” to ensure health care for everyone.

Watch: Mayor Bill de Blasio Calls For Health Care For All New Yorkers 

“Health care is a human right. In this city, we’re going to make that a reality,” he said Tuesday.

De Blasio said his goal is to get the 600,000 New Yorkers without health care – about half undocumented immigrants – access to a primary care doctor and specialty care, prescription drugs and mental health services.

The mayor believes this will be cheaper than having the uninsured go to emergency rooms for care.

The city estimates this will cost approximately $100 million.

As CBS2’s Janelle Burrell reports, there are still many questions that have to be answered about the two proposals, like the cost and eligibility requirements for health care and the impact the vacation time mandate would have on small businesses.

Subway Rider Stabbed With Screwdriver On Board 2 Train In Brooklyn

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – A subway rider was stabbed with a screwdriver Thursday in Brooklyn.

It happened around 2 p.m. on board a northbound 2 train near the Beverly Road station in East Flatbush.

Police said the 29-year-old victim was asleep when someone attacked him with a screwdriver, stabbing him in the head and arm.

2 train screwdriver stabbing nypd Subway Rider Stabbed With Screwdriver On Board 2 Train In Brooklyn

Police say this man is wanted for questioning in a subway screwdriver stabbing Thursday in Brooklyn. (Credit: NYPD)

The suspect also stole $300 before taking off, police said.

The victim was taken to the hospital in stable condition.

Police released surveillance video of a man wanted for questioning in the case. He’s described as a black man, approximately 30 to 35 years old, 5 feet 10 inches tall, 200 pounds, last seen wearing a black and gray jacket, black jeans and a black hat.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish. The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website, on Twitter @NYPDTips or by texting them to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577.

Healthy Eating Habits To Keep Your New Year’s Resolution

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – If you’re like many people and made your New Year’s resolution to lose weight, it can be tough going right now.

Dr. Dina Rose sat down with CBS2’s Cindy Hsu and Janelle Burrell to share some tips on how to tackle healthy eating in 2019.

Rose said start with small changes and explain why, especially for kids, for people wanting to make a change.

0112rose Healthy Eating Habits To Keep Your New Years Resolution

Dr. Dina Rose (Credit: CBS2)

When adding fruits and vegetables, proportion and variety are the keys. Rose breaks down her tips into three easy steps.

  • Proportion: eating healthier foods more frequently than less healthy foods.
  • Variety: eating different foods from meal-to-meal and day-to-day.
  • Moderation: eating when you’re hungry, stopping when you’re full and not eating because you’re bored, sad, or lonely.

Winter Recipes To Help With Your ‘Holiday Detox’

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – As many people look to cleanse themselves in the new year, nutritionist and chef Nicolette Pace shared some of her “holiday detox” soup recipes guaranteed to keep you warm and healthy this winter.

Homemade Bone Broth

Ingredients:

  • 4 pounds beef, chicken, veal or fish bones, preferably a mix of marrow bones and bones with a little meat on them, such as oxtail, short ribs, or knuckle bones (cut in half by a butcher)
  • 2 medium unpeeled carrots, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 medium leek, end trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 medium onion, quartered
  • 1 garlic head, halved crosswise
  • 2 celery stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
  • 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
0112recipe Winter Recipes To Help With Your Holiday Detox

(Credit: CBS2)

How to make it:

  1. Preheat oven to 450°F. Place beef bones, carrots, leek, onion, and garlic on a roasting pan or rimmed baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees, toss the contents of the pan and continue to roast until deeply browned, about 20-40 minutes more.
  2. Fill a large (at least 6-quart) stockpot with 12 cups of water (preferably filtered). Add celery, bay leaves, peppercorns, and vinegar. Scrape the roasted bones and vegetables into the pot along with any juices. Add more water if necessary to cover bones and vegetables.
  3. Cover the pot and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a very low simmer and cook with lid slightly ajar, skimming foam and excess fat occasionally, for at least 8 but up to 24-72 hours on the stove top. With a slow cooker time frame is approximately 6-8 hours. Instant pressure cookers slash the time down to 2 hours.
  4. Remove the pot from the heat and let cool slightly. Remove bones, strain broth and let cool/refrigerate so fat on surface can be easily skimmed. Discard bones and vegetables. Broth can be stored for up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 6 months in the freezer.

Super Detox Veggie Blend

Chef Pace says these super charged seasonal winter gems are jam packed with detoxifying, slimming, anti-bloating, anti-inflammatory, digestive remedies that gives your body the medicine it needs.

0112broth Winter Recipes To Help With Your Holiday Detox

(Credit: CBS2)

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup cubed celery root (celeriac)
  • 1 cut up medium sliced leek (washed thoroughly)
  • 1 medium size kohlrabi bulb cubed
  • 3-4 sliced Jerusalem artichokes (sunchokes)
  • 1-2 carrots chopped
  • Large handful fresh spinach chopped
  • 2 Tbs chopped parsley
  • sea salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika

How to make it:

  1. Place approximately 4 cups cut up vegetables and seasonings into a 4 quart pot. Add 3-4 cups homemade bone broth to cover. Bring to a boil then simmer until vegetables are tender (30-45 minutes). Pressure cooker 10-15 minutes. Slow cooker 60 minutes.
  2. Blend your hot smoothie right in the cooking pot with a wand (immersion) blender for about 30-60 seconds

MTA Board Meeting To Discuss Plan That Would Put Brakes On L Train Shutdown

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – The MTA will hold an emergency board meeting Tuesday on Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s plan to halt the L train shutdown.

The meeting is a chance for the board and the public to hear more about the proposal, which engineers claim would avert the 15-month closure.

Web Extra: Read Gov. Cuomo’s L Train Proposal

Experts say the new plan would allow the Canarsie Tunnel to remain open while crews repair its two tunnels damaged during Superstorm Sandy.

News of the new proposal raised a lot of questions, like whether it’s feasible, how much it will cost and its timeline.

More: MTA Execs Say They Won’t Rubber Stamp Cuomo’s L Train Fix

The firm that came up with the original plan has reviewed the proposal and is expected to recommend the MTA greenlight it, allowing the tunnel to stay open and avoiding what would have been a huge inconvenience for the nearly quarter million people who ride the L train between Brooklyn and Manhattan every day.

Tuesday’s hearing will be held at 12 p.m. For more information, click here.

Chef Killed By Hammer-Wielding Man Inside Brooklyn Restaurant; 2 Others Critically Injured

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) — Investigators on Wednesday charged a man in connection with a random hammer attack Tuesday evening that left a restaurant employee dead.

Those who knew Fufai Pun were unable to make sense of the 34-year-old chef’s brutal and unexpected death.

“(I’m) very surprised because he’s very young guy. I very sad,” neighbor Mei Ghang told CBS2.

Surveillance video shows panicked patrons and frantic employees at the Seaport Buffet, located on Emmons Avenue in Sheepshead Bay, running and trying to get to safety after police said a man burst into the restaurant armed with a hammer and began to attack.

“He was just screaming crazy words like, ‘I’m killing everybody! This world is hell!’ and everything. He was just screaming crazy things,” said Samantha Randazzo, co-owner of Randazzo’s Clam Bar.

Investigators said 34-year-old Arthur Martunovich, who has no known connection to the victims or the restaurant, entered the eatery at around 5 p.m. and began striking an employee near the door. They said he then went toward the back of the restaurant and hit another worker multiple times.

“I saw the Chinese guy, waiter. He was walking by this all bleeding. He hold his head, his two hands, and he fell by the door,” said a customer who did not want to be named.

Detectives said Martunovich then went to the kitchen to go after a third victim, as frightened customers bolted, some of them running into Randazzo’s restaurant nearby.

“We heard a guy say ‘Lock all the doors. A guy is killing people,'” Randazzo said.

Those who escaped pointed out Martunovich to police. Surveillance video show officers chasing after him and taking him into custody a couple of blocks away.

When it was over, the 60-year-old male owner and 50-year-old male manager of the buffet were critically injured and chef Pun was rushed to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

“He’s very nice man,” Ghang said.

Sources told CBS2 Martunovich informed police that he was hearing voices. He is expected to undergo a psychiatric evaluation.

Martunovich has been charged with murder, attempted murder, and criminal possession of a weapon.

84-Year-Old Woman Killed In Queens Fire; 5 Others Injured

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – A fire left an 84-year-old woman dead and five other people injured late Wednesday night in Queens.

Flames broke out around 11:30 p.m. at an apartment building on 91st Street near Merrick Boulevard in Jamaica.

When firefighters arrived, they found 84-year-old Ruth Andrade unconscious, along with an 85-year-old man in need of assistance. Both were rushed to Queens General Hospital, where the woman died. The man is now in stable condition.

Four others suffered minor injuries.

It took about 150 firefighters an hour and a half to get the flames under control.

“On arrival, there was heavy fire, there were multiple civilians trying to exit the building,” FDNY Deputy Chief George Healy said. “The fire marshals are on the scene. Unfortunately, there is some significant structural damage to the building that’s impacting their investigation at this time, but the investigation is ongoing.”

The cause of the fire has not been determined.


Messy Friday Morning Ahead Of Wallop This Weekend

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – A wintry mix of snow and rain moved through the Tri-State Area overnight.

The lingering precipitation could make for a messy Friday morning commute.

This is the first of a one-two punch, with more snow and rain in store this weekend.

Watch: CBS2’s John Elliott With The Latest Weather Forecast 

Gov. Andrew Cuomo has activated the state emergency operation center to help monitor the storm, and New Jersey’s Department of Transportation is warning drivers to avoid unnecessary travel.

Dozens of area schools are closed Friday or have delayed openings, but New York City public schools are not affected.

The city vowed to pull out all the stops in preparation for the back-to-back storms, not wanting a repeat of the November snowstorm that left students and drivers stranded.

More: Weather Center | School Closings | Survival Guide

“As The Who once said, we won’t be fooled again,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said Thursday. “Whatever the National Weather Service says, we’re now like multiplying by four.”

Just a few inches of snow led to disaster, largely because of the poor response by Department of Public Works crews. A crash shut down the George Washington Bridge, and surrounding streets were so jammed some drivers were stuck sitting in their cars for several hours – even plows couldn’t get through.

“We learned from that event,” said Joe Esposito, commissioner of the Office of Emergency Management. “I’m not going to make promises. What I can tell you is we’re better prepared for it and we’re doing more.”

Watch: CBS2’s Mobile 2 In Monmouth County, N.J. 

Saturday evening’s storm is causing more concern, especially the ice that’s expected to follow.

“I’m telling you right now for the event over weekend: you should not be on the road,” Department of Sanitation Commissioner Kathryn Garcia said.

That system arrives Saturday, the snow changes over to sleet on Sunday and will likely make for a slick commute Monday.

Winds Making Dangerous Cold Even Worse Today Across Tri-State

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Monday will be dangerously cold throughout the Tri-State.

Watch: CBS2’s John Elliott With The Latest Weather Forecast 

Highs will be in the teens, with the wind making it feel more like below zero. A wind advisory is now in effect, with gusts up to 50 miles per hour possible around New York City.

More: Weather Center | School Closings

Government officials warn people to be careful, minimizing their skin exposure and time outside. The weather is not only a concern for your health, but for those driving in it as well.

“Extremely cold air has swept across the state, with wind chills of 25 to 35 below zero forecast upstate through Monday afternoon,” said Michael Kopy, governor’s office director of emergency management. “This arctic blast is of significant concern in the lower Hudson Valley, where the dropping temperatures are likely to cause flash freezing on the roads.”

More: Winter Survival Guide | What Is A Code Blue?

In anticipation of the cold, the New York City Housing Authority activated additional heating response teams and its incident command center to help minimize any disruption to heat and quickly deal with any outages.

Fortunately, the federal holiday will mean fewer people are out and about.

MTA Increasing Speed Limits For Subway Trains

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – The subway is speeding up across New York City.

Newly revised speed limits have trains picking up the pace at 24 stations.

The MTA is about one third of the way through increasing the speed limit system wide – in some places, more than doubling how fast the trains travel, or removing a limit all together.

At the City Hall station, for example, the R and W trains were bumped from 6 to 15 miles per hour. In other locations, the increase will be more significant, jumping from 20 to 40 miles per hour.

Places like the 1 line, heading southbound north of Penn Station, there’s no longer any speed restriction.

The MTA started the initiative last year.

“We’ve been looking at every territory in the system, specifically looking at our signals, trying to find where those signals are no longer calibrated correctly and fix them,” Sally Librera, senior vice president for subways, said in December.

The agency has been sending teams to inspect all of the subway tracks and determine which can withstand higher speeds while maintaining safety standards. In their work, they’ve uncovered 320 faulty timers. So far, 59 of those timers have been fixed.

After a series of crashes, like one in 1995 where a motorman was killed, the underground speed limits were reduced.

Experts say improvements in train and track design, and technology, allow the subway cars to travel more swiftly and safely.

Millennials Ditching The Doctor; What’s At Stake

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – More and more millennials are ditching the doctor and many don’t even have a primary care physician, according to a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation.

Some doctors say this could lead to people overlooking serious health issues.

Dr. Niket Sonpal, adjunct assistant professor at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, joined CBSN New York’s Janelle Burrell to explain what’s behind this health trend.

“I think there’s a few reasons. I think the primary one happens to be access to care,” he said. “We found that millennials tend to want to have access to care right away, they want it immediately and they want to be able to see a doctor quickly.”

“When they feel well, they don’t want to go to the doctors, and they don’t,” he continued. “So then when they feel unwell, they’re like I want to see a doctor right away and not wait for weeks for an appointment.”

So what are the dangers of skipping the doctor’s office and opting for urgent care instead?

“The big one that we’re worried about now, and I think it’s a big global health crisis, is not getting their vaccinations on time.”

They’re also missing recommended health exams, like blood pressure, eye, IBS and digestives, mental health and annual check-ups.

“Go see a doctor every year. It might just be a quick check, but it could find something that’s missing,” said Dr. Sonpal. “And, of course, get your vaccinations.”

Metro-North Adding 4 New Stops Between East Bronx, Penn Station

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NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) – There’s some good news for Metro-North riders who travel to the West Side of Manhattan

The MTA is planning four new stations, linking the East Bronx with Penn Station.

“The Bronx needs this, the Bronx wants it,” MTA board member Charles Moerdler said. “It’s a game changer.”

MTA board members said this is what the region has long needed – a deal that will give Westchester County and Bronx residents a direct Metro-North train route into the West Side.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Tuesday that the MTA, Amtrak and Empire State Development reached an agreement allowing the plan to move forward, meaning four new Metro-North stations will be built along an under-utilized rail line in the East Bronx.

“In the last couple of weeks, we had the benefit of the governor’s help in bringing us together with Amtrak and getting over the finish line,” said Janno Lieber, of MTA Capital Construction.

The new line will run from New Rochelle in Westchester County through the new station in the Bronx, which will be in Co-Op City, Morris Park, Park Chester and Hunts Point.

The deal was contingent on Amtrak allowing Metro-North to use its track.

More: Schumer, Residents Call For Action On Amtrak West Side Access Plan

The agreement comes as Metro-North announced that this spring it will be extending ride times for commuters in an effort to improve service. But that will mean it will take more time to reach their destinations.

Metro-North will be adding between two and seven minutes to Hudson Line trains and between one and five minutes on Harlem line trains.

NYPD: Cyclist Attacks Uber Driver With Bike Lock, Climbs On Top Of Car

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – The NYPD is trying to track down a cyclist behind a bizarre attack against an Uber driver last week in Midtown.

Police say the cyclist tracked down the driver, smashed his window and struck him in the head with a bike lock – while there were passengers in the backseat.

It started around 1:20 p.m. last Friday when the suspect alleged started banging on the driver’s window, investigators said. The driver tried to turn onto East 40th Street near Fifth Avenue, but the suspect followed him.

(Credit: NYPD)

While the Uber was stopped in traffic, the cyclist allegedly used his lock to smash the car’s front windshield and shatter the rear window. When the driver exited his car, police said the suspect hit the 23-year-old in the head and back with lock.

Video shows the cyclist them climb on top of the car, screaming and stomping on the hood, before he took off heading west on East 40th Street on a black and green bike.

The driver was taken to the hospital and treated for cuts. His passengers were not hurt.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish. The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website, on Twitter @NYPDTips or by texting them to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577.

Missing Woman Found Dead In Squatter House, Person Of Interest Linked To Previous Attack

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Nine days after Johynita Jordan was reported missing from her Staten Island home, the 69-year-old’s body was found in an abandoned home, what neighbor’s describe as a squatter house on Van Duzer Street in the Grymes Hill section for Staten Island.

Police are now questioning a “person of interest” in the case and he’s allegedly the suspect in the brutal beating of another woman, reports CBS2’s Janelle Burrell.

Investigators are questioning 32-year-old Linden Beaton as a person of interest in the Jordan case.

Beaton is a registered sex offender who is already being held after being arrested Friday for the assault of 57-year-old Beatrice Kaliku on Jan. 5.

Johynita Jordan (Credit: CBS2)

Kaliku was on her way to a prayer service when she says a stranger attacked her.

“Punch me, try to cover my mouth choke,” Kaliku told CBS2 about her ordeal. “And he just took my hair and slammed me to the iron gate.”

Someone later found Kaliku and called an ambulance, but her daughter says it took at least a week before police would seriously investigate.

Linden Beaton (Credit: NYS Criminal Justice Services)

“They said they didn’t have enough description, information from my mom cause she was blacked out,” said Tryphena Kaliku. “It took me a lot going back and forth cause like I said, they first closed the case out. Once I showed the officer at the precinct this is not something I feel should be swept under the rug.”

Police sources say two NYPD personnel are being disciplined for prematurely closing Kaliku’s case.

Jordan went missing two weeks after Kaliku’s attack. Her body found not far from where Kaliku was attacked.

“Makes me nervous every time I hear the story, because that could’ve been me,” said Beatrice Kaliku.


New York Weather: Deep Freeze Prompts Flight Cancellations Across Country

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – The deep freeze we’re feeling is causing problems at airports across much of the country.

Watch: CBS2’s John Elliott With The Latest Weather Forecast 

As CBS2’s Janelle Burrell reports, airline officials say they are taking preemptive measures. At LaGuardia Airport, more than 50 flights were cancelled early Wednesday morning, and that number could increase as the day goes on.

HELPFUL LINKS

Find more links in our CBS2 Winter Storm Survival Guide, with tips for caring for your pets, car, and more.

The weather has crippled major airlines in hubs like Chicago, having a ripple effect on flights around the country. Some airlines have offered customers the chance to change flights free of charge.

“I was going through Chicago, and the funny thing is that I realized I had been in Chicago in January of 1985 when they set the record for the coldest temperature, and now here I am going back again – connecting through,” Michael Litt, of Darien, Connecticut, told Burrell at LaGuardia. “The fates must want me to be in Chicago on the coldest days in the history of that city.”

Click here to check the latest weather forecast and maps.

As for mass transit in our area, the MTA plans to active warming devices to keep Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North track switches from freezing. LIRR stations will also keep their waiting rooms open 24-hours Thursday through Saturday.

New Jersey TRANSIT says hundreds of its trains and buses have been winterized, which means their heating and electronic systems have been checked. It also has about 20,000 pounds of salt on hand to help keep platforms ice-free.

Powerful Snow Squall Socks New York As Polar Vortex Settles In Across Tri-State Area

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – A powerful snow squall socked the Tri-State area Wednesday afternoon, bringing extreme cold on its heels.

The polar vortex is bringing a blast of bitter air to the Tri-State area, with the system already blamed for at least six deaths across the country.

MORE: CBS2’s Winter Survival Guide | Latest Forecast & Alerts

MORE: What Is A Polar Vortex?

Heavy wind gusts of 37 mph were recorded during the squall, and the intense snowfall – though brief – made conditions on the roads and streets hazardous.

Videos posted to social media showed the impact of the squall.

A wind advisory was in effect until 7 p.m., followed by a wind chill advisory from 7 p.m. to 10 a.m. with gusts up to 50 miles an hour are possible.

Watch: Mayor Bill de Blasio On Storm Preparations

Elizabeth Benitez spoke with CBS2 while she waited for the bus in Astoria Wednesday.

“Like knives piercing through your skin. It’s really, really cold,” she said.

Watch: CBSN New York’s John Dias At The Moment The Squall Hit

“Freezing,” a man added.

Other commuters on an elevated subway platform said the wind had them rethinking their attire.

“Realizing how cold it actually is right now, I’m kind of regretting my decision,” said Mark Derose.

“Earmuffs are good. I wish I had a hat,” another man added.

Watch: Gov. Andrew Cuomo Gives Storm Briefing 

Salt trucks are making their rounds to prevent icing on city streets, and the parks department is doing the same on sidewalks.

If you think commuting to work in the cold is bad, imagine having to work in it all day, like parks employee Linda Miller.

“I’m thermaled down. I have on sweaters, jackets, coats – and keep a sense of humor,” she said.

She’s in for more of the same Thursday when temperatures plunge even lower.

“Oh gosh, I’m not even prepared for it, but another day another dollar,” she said.

The New York City Housing Authority has activated its situation room in Queens and opened a warming center in every borough from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. for the rest of the week. It’s also added additional heating response teams and staffing at its customer contact center.

Several flights were cancelled at airports across the country, and the MTA and NJ TRANSIT are preparing for the worst.

Massive Fire Destroys Iconic Marcal Paper Mill In New Jersey

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ELMWOOD PARK, N.J. (CBSNewYork) – A raging fire ripped through a paper mill Wednesday in New Jersey, destroying the entire building.

As CBS2’s Janelle Burrell reports, the flames could be seen for miles.

The fire was called in around 5:15 p.m. at the iconic Marcal Paper building on Market Street in Elmwood Park. Two hundred employees were on site at the time.

Paper products helped fuel the flames, and the extreme cold and gusty winds made battling the enormous blaze even more challenging for crews dealing with frozen hydrants and hoses.

MORE: Over 100 Firefighters Battle Massive Wind-Swept Blaze At Iconic Marcal Paper Plant In Elmwood Park

The Marcal sign collapsed, along with the rest of the building. With propane tanks on site at risk of an explosion, it became an extremely dangerous situation for firefighters.

“It’s freezing. The firefighters are dealing with water on their hands, on their faces,” Chief of Police Michael Falligno said. “The wind is whipping. It’s probably 35 mile per hour wind gusts. And that just feeds a flame, feeds a fire, and causes it to spread rapidly. So that’s not helping us in this scenario.”

“It’s horrible. I mean, I don’t have words,” a woman added.

“Oh my god. We’re all – everybody’s worried,” Elmwood Park resident Enzo Russo said.

Firefighters said embers the size of softballs were seen falling several blocks from the scene.

Amazingly, no one was hurt. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Schools in the area will be closed Thursday, because of the mess that remains.

Congestion Pricing Coming To For-Hire Vehicles In Manhattan

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Congestion pricing is coming to for-hire vehicles in Manhattan.

That means hailing a taxi or calling a car, like Uber or Lyft, will cost more when you head into the busiest parts of the borough.

While a taxi-industry lawsuit against the state continues in court, a judge has lifted a temporary restraining order – allowing the surcharge to move forward.

The state can now start collecting a $2.50 fee on every cab ride below 96th Street, bringing the base fare in a taxi up to $5.80.

Passengers using app-based vehicles could see $2.75 added to fares, meaning a minimum base fare of $10.75.

At this point, it’s not clear when the new fees will take effect.

Web Extra: Read Complete Congestion Pricing Plan

Gov. Andrew Cuomo says the surcharges are necessary to pay for mass transit improvements, raising about $1 million a day.

But the New York Taxi Workers Alliance says the surcharges will cripple drivers and medallion owners.

“We’re calling on the governor not to move forward with fees that will force drivers to choose between food and medicine. That is how dire the poverty is now among this workforce that has lost eight of our brothers to suicide in less than a year,” the organization said in a statement.

Ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft, however, say they support the effort.

“Users of Manhattan’s congested roads, whether it’s a personal vehicle, delivery truck, taxi or Uber – should pay their fair share to keep New York City moving forward,” Uber said in a statement.

“It’s imperative that all vehicles-  including personal and commercial – are included in this effort,” Lyft said.

As CBS2’s Janelle Burrell reports, the app-based companies will likely absorb some of the fees so they aren’t passed on to customers.

Friday was supposed to be the day ride-share drivers received a minimum wage increase, but some companies are fighting the measure.

The city’s taxi and limousine commission set new payment standards last year, requiring a minimum of just over $17 an hour.

Lyft and Juno filed a lawsuit challenging the regulation this week. Uber and Via are expected to go along with the increase.

Showtime! Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show Comes Back To NYC

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show rolls into town next week.

More than 2,000 adorable canines will strut their stuff as they compete for the title of “best in show.”

One of the four-legged competitors, Dobby, joined CBS2’s Cindy Hsu and Janelle Burrell before his big day.

Westminster Kennel Club dog show contender, Dobby. (Credit: CBS2)

Dobby’s owner, Stefanie Kappus, and Gail Miller Bisher of the Westminster Kennel Club also stopped by to preview the annual event.

Starting of Feb. 9, dog lovers (and cat lovers too) with have a chance to meet and visit with hundreds of dogs and cats, while learning about responsible pet ownership and various breeds.

Saturday will also feature the sixth annual Masters Agility Championship

Westminster Kennel Club dog show. (Credit: CBS2/WKC)

On Feb. 11, the fourth annual Masters Obedience Championship will feature the top obedience dogs and their handlers from around the country. Dog and handler teams will compete in traditional and freestyle exercises in the ultimate display of companionship.

The event’s grand finale comes on Feb. 11-12, when fans will witness the 143rd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

The Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding divisions will be seen on Monday.

Sporting, Working, and Terrier division will be seen on Tuesday.

For More Information And Tickets To The Event, Click Here

MSG Goes Gourmet: Here Are Some Of The Tasty Dishes Now At Madison Square Garden

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Going to a sporting event and just settling for some popcorn and hot dogs is a thing of the past, especially at Madison Square Garden.

Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten shared some of the sophisticated dishes you’ll find at the “world’s most famous arena,” including at his eatery Simply Chicken.

Chicken Meatball Sliders and Spicy Tomato Sauce and Parmesan

(Credit: CBS2)

Ingredients for the tomato sauce:

  • 200 grams sweet onions, small dice
  • 80 grams garlic, minced
  • 180 grams extra virgin olive oil
  • 10 grams salt
  • 3,000 grams of San Marzano diced tomatoes

Extra ingredients:

  • 19 grams salt
  • 35 grams chipotle in adobe (pureed)
  • 50 grams molasses
  • 10 grams organic liquid mesquite smoke
  • 10 grams fresh basil leaves

Combine the onions, garlic, olive oil, and salt and cook, covered, on medium high heat until completely tender (no resistance at all); no color. Add tomatoes and boil on high heat for 45 minutes, stirring as needed. At this point the sauce should weigh 2000 grams for this amount, now stir in the extra salt, chipotle, molasses, liquid mesquite smoke, and basil leaves. Then cool over ice.

Ingredients for the meatballs:

  • 1,000 grams organic skinless chicken thighs, ground twice
  • 70 grams sour dough boule, crust removed
  • 200 grams milk
  • 5 grams minced garlic
  • 5 grams parsley chiffonade
  • 15 grams salt
  • 1 gram pepper
  • 35 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 egg beaten

Soak the sourdough in the milk for five minutes then gently mix everything with the ground meat. Portion into 70 gram balls.

For the crumbs:

  • 35 grams extra virgin olive oil
  • 75 grams panko
  • 2 grams salt
  • Sauté panko in EVOO until golden then season with salt and blot well on paper towels.

To serve one portion:

  • 2 potato slider buns
  • 2 hot meatballs
  • 2 oz. hot sauce
  • 2 tspn. crumbs
  • 2 tspns. Parmesan cheese

Arrange buns in a serving tray and top each bun with a meatball, then spoon sauce over top. Sprinkle with crumbs, then Parmesan and serve.

Queens Deli Worker Shot In Head During Attempted Robbery

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – A deli employee was shot in the head during a robbery attempt over the weekend in Queens.

Police are searching for the suspects, who were caught on camera.

It happened around 12:45 a.m. Saturday at 110 Gourmet Deli on Sutphin Boulevard near Brinkerhoff Avenue in Jamaica.

Surveillance video shows three suspects walk into the deli, where one pulls out a gun and demands cash.

(Credit: NYPD)

When the 27-year-old employee refused, police said the gunman fired one shot, which grazed the worker’s head.

The suspects took off heading west on 110 Avenue. Police said a fourth person stood outside the store as lookout.

They’re described as black males wearing dark hooded jackets and sweaters. One had on blue jeans and black and white sneakers, another had black sweatpants and black sneakers, another dark jeans and black sneakers, and the fourth wore blue pants, red or orange sneakers and a blue scarf across his face.

The employee was taken to the hospital in stable condition.

Anyone with information is asked to call NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish. You can also submit a tip via the Crime Stoppers website, by Tweeting @NYPDTips or by texting a tip to 274637 (CRIMES) and then entering TIP577.


NYC Sanitation Commissioner Kathryn Garcia Tapped To Take Over NYCHA

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – New York City’s sanitation commissioner is taking on a major new role.

Kathryn Garcia will work with the federal government to overhaul the city’s public housing system.

This is part of a recent agreement between the feds and the city, which called for a new interim chair of the New York City Housing Authority.

Garcia takes over for Stanley Brezenoff, who had been serving as interim chair. She’ll work closely with NYCHA’s general manager, Vito Mustaciuolo.

MORE: NYC, Feds Reach Agreement To Overhaul Struggling NYCHA

The agency has long been criticized for mismanagement and dangerous living conditions in some of its nearly 180,000 apartments that house more than 400,000 people.

As part of the deal with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the city will invest $2.5 billion in NYCHA over the next 10 years.

In a statement, Garcia said in part, “There’s been real progress – now it’s time to go farther and faster. We have a plan to renovate tens of thousands of apartments and an agreement with the federal government to improve all of our key services to residents. I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and put these plans into action.”

She has headed the Department of Sanitation since 2014 and will take a leave of absence as she severs in the interim role at NYCHA. First Deputy Commissioner Steven Costas will take over the sanitation department while she’s gone.

The city has two months to choose a permanent NYCHA chair.

‘She Gave Me Everything:’ Son Charged In Mother’s Death Says He Didn’t Kill Her

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – A man whose mother was reported missing this week in Manhattan and later found dead in New Jersey has been held without bail.

Jared Eng, 22, and two others were arrested Wednesday and charged with concealing 65-year-old Paula Chin’s body.

When asked whether he killed his mom, Eng told reporters, “I did not, I love her very much, she gave me everything.”

Paula Chin (credit: NYPD)

Chin, a mother of two sons, was reported missing by family Monday in Manhattan. Her body was later found in her second home in Morristown, New Jersey.

Investigators said she had been stabbed three times.

Police believed Chin was killed in her building on Vestry Street in Tribeca, and then her body was driven 35 miles to her other home, where it was dumped.

Those who knew the family were shaken by the news.

“It really makes me feel bad,” said Robert Jones. “I really can’t see him doing this. It’s just a tragedy for the family.”

Chin’s son, Eng, his female friend and another woman, said to be his girlfriend, were charged with concealing her corpse. No one has been charged with killing her, though charges are expected to be upgraded.

Cuomo’s Ultimatum: Congestion Pricing Or 30-Percent Fare Hike To Fund MTA Fix

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Gov. Andrew Cuomo is asking lawmakers to choose between congestion pricing or a 30-percent fare hike to fix the failing Metropolitan Transit Authority.

The fare hike would be on top of an increase that’s already under consideration. 

The MTA is antiquated, plagued with overcrowding, endless delays, broken signals and, according to the governor, in need of an overhaul.

“The MTA’s performance is simply indefensible,” he said Thursday.

Watch: Gov. Cuomo Lays Out Plan For MTA Fix 

Cuomo’s putting on the pressure, offering two options to get the MTA the money it needs.

“The real choice is between congestion pricing or a 30-percent MTA toll and fare increase,” he said.

The proposed 30-percent hike in fares and tolls would be on top of the one that’s already in the works, which would raise the $2.75 fare to $3. That price would go to $4 without congestion pricing for passenger cars in parts of Manhattan.

Web Extra: Michael Gianaris On CBSN New York 

Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris spoke about the governor’s pitch on CBSN New York, saying the 30-percent increase option is a bit extreme.

“I think the governor is being a little creative to identify the scope of the problem for people and encourage them to focus on congestion pricing as a solution, and hopefully it will never come anything close to that,” he said.

Even talk of a potential 30-percent hike concerns riders.

MORE: Gov. Cuomo Makes It Clear: He Wants Total Control Of MTA

“Four dollars? I think $3 is way too much that they’re talking about,” Lisa Lamarati, of Long Island City, said.

“That would be terrible. I don’t like how much I pay already,” said Andrew Thomas, of Far Rockaway.

The governor’s clear preference is getting congestion pricing passed by lawmakers, which would mean a surcharge for passenger cars entering Manhattan’s business district below 60th Street.

Lawmakers would have to approve congestion pricing. If passed, Cuomo says cameras would be installed throughout Manhattan as part of the EZ-Pass system.

Group Breaks Man’s Leg, Eye Socket In Brutal Brooklyn Beating

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Police are searching for the suspects behind a brutal attack that was caught on camera in Brooklyn.

Around 6:45 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 2, a group of men approached the 50-year-old victim as he sat on a stoop outside 462 Pulaski Street in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood.

The suspects can be seen on surveillance video beating the man before stealing his cellphone.

Police are searching for the suspects behind a brutal attack that was caught on camera in Brooklyn. (Credit: NYPD)

Police said it did not appear to be a random attack.

The victim was taken to the hospital in serious but stable condition with a broken leg and broken eye socket.

Police said the suspects fled west on Stuyvesant Avenue.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to call NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish. You can also submit a tip via the Crime Stoppers website, by Tweeting @NYPDTips or by texting a tip to 274637 (CRIMES) and then entering TIP577.

New York Weather: Snow Gives Way To Sleet, Freezing Rain As City Braces For Icy Night

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – A slow-moving system brought a wintry mix of snow, sleet and rain to the Tri-State on Tuesday.

Click to watch CBSN New York’s continuing storm coverage.

Flakes started to fly during the morning hours, reaching New York City by noontime. The city expects to see 2 to 4 inches of accumulation before the precipitation turns over to sleet and then heavy rain overnight.

The Office of Emergency Management issued a travel advisory from 6 a.m. through midnight, with the Department of Sanitation stationing 700 salt spreaders across the five boroughs with another 1,600 plows standing by.

“We are expecting wintry mix of snow, sleet, and rain that will cause messy travel conditions on Tuesday. We advise New Yorkers to take mass transit where possible, exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking, and allow for extra travel time,” OEM Commissioner Joseph Esposito said in a statement. “NYC Emergency Management is working closely with agency partners to coordinate preparations for the upcoming storm.”

New York City public schools remained open Tuesday, and Mayor Bill de Blasio said he expects they’ll stay open Wednesday, too.

“Schools will be open tomorrow, we know that for sure right now,” he said Tuesday afternoon. “We expect warming later on when we get to the end of the evening and going into tomorrow.”

Web Extras: Weather Center | School Closings | Survival Guide | Travel Delays

Dozens of schools outside the city, however, were closed Tuesday.

“The kids need to be in school. It’s the best free babysitting club we have in the world,” Bushwick mother Saida Reyes told CBS2’s Janelle Burrell. “[But] tomorrow, if the snow is here, there better not be no school, because it’s very dangerous, and the children need to stay home.”

Watch: Mayor Bill de Blasio Discusses Storm Preps In New York City 

Crossing guard Lynelle Simmons agreed.

“It’s a big challenge for me with the traffic and the kids,” she said.

Pedestrians were taking the slippery conditions in stride.

“It’s slippery. It’s gonna be slippery. Cause I slipped coming from over there. So it’s been a little slippery, so you’ve got to take your time, walk slowly, look out for where you’re stepping at,” one woman told CBSN New York’s Hazel Sanchez. “Oh yeah, you’ve got to love it. It’s New York.”

“It is wonderful. It is something different that we can enjoy with the family. New York, snow, that’s something to talk about,” another man said.

“It’s OK, because this year we didn’t have that many snow storms. So, compared to the previous years, this is OK. Not that I love it, not that I hate it, but it’s OK. If you’re from New York, you get used to it,” another man said.

CBS2’s Janelle Burrell spoke with people in Brooklyn who said they welcomed the snow.

“I love it, man,” said Mike Dupree. “It’s all good.”

“Finally we got some snow for this winter,” a woman added.

“I don’t know what everybody complains about,” said Michael Heit.

Others were concerned about the evening commute.

“I secured a great parking spot in case I have to leave early and just take the train,” said a woman named Mia.

“I leave school around 2:30, but then I go to work, so it takes a while to get home, so I am concerned,” Kiara Jean-Jaques said.

Watch: Hempstead Officials Talk Storm Preps On Long Island 

On Long Island, Hempstead Town Supervisor Laura Gillen said officials were on “high alert.”

“There is a concern the real issue with this storm will be ice, not snow. It will be more of an ice concern than a plowing concern,” she said Tuesday morning. “We urge residents to be very careful of black ice, which his extremely dangerous. It looks like the morning commute was spared, but the evening commute will be the real concern later on today.”

Watch: Carolyn Gusoff In Melville, N.Y.  

CBSN New York’s Carolyn Gusoff spotted numerous crashes on the roads as a result of the slippery conditions. Black ice had already begun to form in the afternoon, Gusoff reported.

Some children had early dismissal from school.

Areas north and west of the city could see 4 to 6 inches before all was said and done, with the possibility of icing and power outages.

In Westchester County, cleanup efforts were hindered after over two dozen snow plows were found to have been sabotaged in Mount Vernon.

A state of emergency was also in effect in New Jersey.

‘Absolute Tragedy:’ NYPD Mourns Det. Simonsen, Killed By Friendly Fire While Responding To Robbery

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – The NYPD is mourning a detective killed in the line of duty Tuesday night in Queens.

Det. Brian Simonsen was shot in the chest around 6 p.m. while responding to a botched robbery near the corner of 120th Street and Atlantic Avenue in Richmond Hill.

NYPD Detective Brian Simonsen (Credit: NYPD)

The area surrounding the T-Mobile store where the shooting happened was still closed off Wednesday evening. All day, officers and detectives have been in and out of the store.

Less than a minute after officers arrived Tuesday night, police say more than 40 shots were fired during the attempted robbery.

This afternoon, NYPD officials revealed new details about the shooting.

Watch: NYPD Officials Give Details On Det. Simonsen’s Death 

“Everyone knew Brian was the cop that you reached out to if there was a problem that needed to be handled,” said Chief of Department Terence Monahan. “The events of last night, and what Brian did, it just shows the sort of man he was. He didn’t have to be there.”

Simonsen, a union delegate for detectives at his precinct, had been at a meeting in that capacity earlier in the day and did not have to go to work. He went in anyway, and was in the station processing a robbery arrest when his supervisor, Sgt. Matt Gorman, approached him and the two went looking for a group involved in a robbery.

The two hopped in a police car to conduct surveillance.

At 6:09 p.m., a caller told 911 operators they saw someone put on a mask carrying a gun enter the T-Mobile store.

Simonsen and Gorman were around the corner conducting their surveillance on another case. They responded to the robbery call, along with six uniformed officers.

Christopher Ransom had allegedly taken the T-Mobile employees into the back of the store.

Gorman and two officers entered the store, and Ransom appeared from the back room, carrying what appeared to be a gun, Deputy Chief Kevin Maloney said.

“Upon arrival at the scene, the officers went to the store with other officers. And the perpetrator, Christopher Ransom, with a gun raised, simulating firing at the officers,” Monahan said.

The gun, police said, wound up being a toy.

“As they enter, the perpetrator comes from the back of the location, that office, and he presents himself with the firearm pointed in the direction of the officers. At that time, the officers exit the location, as the perpetrator continues running in their direction. When the perpetrator gets to the front of that store, shots are fired. We have a total of seven members of the service who discharge a total of 42 rounds during this incident. As a result of this incident, the two police officers are shot,” Maloney said.

Simonsen was struck once in the chest. He was not wearing a bulletproof vest – it’s department policy to wear one.

Fellow officers rushed the detective to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in a police car, but he did not survive.

Gorman, 34, was shot in the leg. He was taken to the hospital by a passerby in a civilian vehicle and was listed in stable condition.

Sgt. Matthew Gorman (credit: NYPD)

“He’s still being treated. I can tell you, he’s not the least bit concerned about his own injury. He’s overcome by the emotion of losing his friend and his partner, Brian Simonsen, as are all the officers in the 102ng precinct that I visited today,” said Monahan. “I ask that every New Yorker keep Brian’s family and the members of 102nd precinct and every New York City cop in their prayers.”

Ransom, 27, was shot eight times. He was wielding an “imitation pistol,” Maloney said. He was rushed to New York-Presbyterian/Queens, where he was taken into custody and is expected to survive. He has prior convictions, including impersonating a police officer, Monahan said.

Five of the officers were wearing bodycams that captured part of the shooting, Maloney said. There’s also surveillance footage of the incident from within the store, Maloney said. Simonsen fired twice, Gorman 11 times, and the other responding officers combined fired 29 times, according to Maloney. The shots were fired over a span of 11 seconds.

“Just understand: This happens in seconds. It goes from zero to 60. You’re investigating a possible crime and all of a sudden someone is charging at you, pointing what you to believe to be a firearm, simulating firing at you. It raises everything very quickly,” Monahan said.

Monahan called it “horrible.”

“This is the worst feeling that you could have. It’s the worst thing that we ever go through as a police department,” he said.

It’s not clear who fired the shot that struck Simonsen. Monahan said the blame belongs squarely on Ransom’s shoulders, adding the whole situation was caused by his actions.

The NYPD asked anyone with additional information about Ransom that might help their investigation to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.

Police Commissioner James O’Neill called it a tragic case of friendly fire.

“This is an absolute tragedy, the worst outcome any police officer or family of a police officer could ever imagine,” he said late Tuesday night.

Watch: Mayor De Blasio & Commissioner O’Neill S On Det. Simonsen’s Death 

Mayor Bill de Blasio held a moment of silence for the 19-year veteran during a speech at PS 189 in Crown Heights.

“The bravery it takes to go into the unknown situation like that is extraordinary, and he gave his life for us,” he said Wednesday morning.

Black and purple bunting went up Wednesday outside the 102nd Precinct station house. Monahan was among those who stopped by to pay their respects.

CBS2’s Janelle Burrell spoke with community members who said Det. Simonsen will be remembered for the way he treated others.

“We’re talking about an officer who is literally the last of a dying breed, almost, especially in this neighborhood,” said Richmond Hill resident Polo Savinon.

Hailan Gamil said the 42-year-old was a regular at the deli where he works. A tribute has been set up outside the store.

“He used to come to this store almost every day to get water and soda,” he said. “Every time I saw him, he was smiling, talking to me like one of his friends.”

“I will miss this guy. I can’t believe I’m not going to see him anymore,” Gamil added.

“Make no mistake about it, friendly fire aside, it’s because of the actions of the suspect that Det. Simonsen is dead,” said O’Neill.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo ordered flags to be flown at half staff in honor of the fallen hero.

“I am deeply saddened by the shooting of NYPD Detective Brian Simonsen,” he said in a statement Wednesday. “This tragedy is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks the brave men and women in law enforcement face every day to keep us safe. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I offer my deepest sympathies to Detective Simonsen’s loved ones and fellow members of the NYPD.”

A police caravan drove Simonsen’s body from a Bronx hospital past an FDNY tribute to a funeral home in Mattituck, Suffolk County where officials lined the entrance in salute.

Ransom is facing a slew of charges related to Tuesday’s tragedy, including second degree murder, aggravated manslaughter, and robbery.

Tears Of Blue: Funeral Set For NYPD Det. Brian Simonsen

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What We Know:

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Funeral arrangements have been announced for NYPD Det. Brian Simonsen, who made the ultimate sacrifice while responding to a robbery earlier this week in Queens.

Meanwhile, a memorial grows outside the 102nd Precinct in Richmond Hill, where the 42-year-old detective spent his entire 19-year career.

“He was the definition of a cop’s cop,” NYPD Chief of Department Terence Monahan said Wednesday night. “There wasn’t a person in the 102nd Precinct that did not know Brian – from the cleaner up to the commanding officer.”

Watch: NYPD Officials Give Details On Det. Simonsen’s Death 

Late Wednesday night, a police caravan transported Simonsen’s body past an FDNY tribute over to a funeral home in Mattituck – in Suffolk County on Long Island – where officers stood in salute.

The neighborhood in Calverton which Simonsen called home was shrouded in blue ribbons on Thursday, expressing the collective grief of the community. In nearby Jamesport, where he was born and raised, flags flew at half-staff.

“Probably the best guy I ever knew in my life. He was one of my best friends,” said neighbor Harry Goldbach.

NYPD Det. Brian Simonsen (Credit: CBS2)

Simonsen’s family includes a close-knit group of friends who supported him through tragedy as a teen, including the loss of his sister, who was hit by a car, and his father months later.

Friends say the family is grateful to the NYPD for its remarkable support, including a visit Thursday from Commissioner James O’Neill.

“They’re strong, but they’re crushed, they are devastated,” O’Neill said. “Of course, they’ll have our support. We are going to be with them forever.”

Back in Richmond Hill, the bullet-riddled T-Mobile store where Simonsen lost his life remains a crime scene.

He and his partner, Sgt. Matthew Gorman, were responding to a reported armed robbery at the store on Atlantic Ave. just after 6 p.m. Tuesday.

“He presents himself with the firearm pointed in the direction of the officers,” police said.

NYPD Sgt. Matthew Gorman (Credit: NYPD)

Once Simonsen and Gorman, dressed in plain clothes, retreated from the store, gunfire erupted. Police fired 42 rounds in 11 seconds, one bullet hitting the detective in the chest and killing him in an unfortunate case of friendly fire. The sergeant was also injured, shot in the leg.

The suspect, 27-year-old Christopher Ransom, who has 25 prior arrests, was shot eight times. He survived and was charged with murder, even though police say the weapon he was carrying was fake.

“Everyone is innocent until proven guilty, not guilty until proven innocent,” a family spokesperson Kevin McCall said Wednesday.

Police say this is the imitation pistol suspect Christopher Ransom allegedly flashed at Det. Brian Simonsen, before he was killed by friendly fire. (Credit: NYPD)

Simonsen was not wearing a bulletproof vest when he was shot.

“Brian Simonson was the greatest person that has ever lived,” former NYPD partner Terrance Legrady said. “Brian brought joy and light to the world. New York was just a small portion of that. But the world lost an – honest to god – one of the best.”

His services will start with a wake from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, followed by a funeral at 10 a.m. Wednesday. All services will be held at Saint Rosalie Roman Catholic Church in Hampton Bays.

To share a message of sympathy on the funeral home’s website, click here.


‘It’s Astounding:’ Mayor De Blasio Says Amazon ‘Just Plain Walked Away’ From NYC Deal

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The Latest:

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Reaction to Amazon’s decision to pull the plug on a second headquarters in Long Island City, Queens has become just as divisive as the agreement itself.

“It’s over, and it’s astounding, and it’s disappointing and it’s disrespectful to the people of New York City,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said in an interview Friday morning.

Web Extras: Read Amazon’s Statement | Read Gov. Cuomo’s Response

For the mayor and governor, who were key in brokering the agreement, it’s a major loss.

“In the final analysis, we said to Amazon, ‘we will make sure that we hold up – as the city of New York, state of New York – our end of the bargain, but you have to do things for this city and this state, too.’ It was a very fair deal, and they just plain walked away,” de Blasio said Friday. “There was no attempt at dialogue. I’ve never experienced anything like it.”

Gov. Andrew Cuomo placed the blame on state lawmakers Thursday, saying in a statement, “The New York State Senate has done tremendous damage. They should be held accountable.”

Watch: Queens Lawmakers React To News Amazon Deal Is Dead 

The deal, which included about $3 billion in government incentives for Amazon, was supposed to bring 25,000 jobs with it. Now that it’s a no-go, some Long Island City residents say it’s a huge missed opportunity.

“Turn your cameras that way to the Ryder truck parking lot, the bombed out cars in our neighborhood. This is not Shangri-La over here. We needed this over here, we needed this,” business owner Josh Bowen said.

Watch: Expert Calls Amazon’s Reversal ‘An Enormous Surprise’ 

Some lawmakers said the tech giant was getting far too much in subsidies and argued the second headquarters would further drive up the cost of living and overrun mass transit. They consider Amazon backing out to be a victory.

“I hope it sends the signal that if we’re coming here, we’re coming for the talent pool, we’re coming here because New York is value added, and we’re coming here because we want to, not because we’re getting paid to be here,” State Sen. Michael Gianaris said Friday.

‘New York City Is Heartbroken’: Fallen NYPD Det. Brian Simonsen Mourned At Funeral

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Tears Of Blue: 

NEW YORK, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) – The funeral for fallen NYPD detective Brian Simonsen was held Wednesday morning at the Church of St. Rosalie in Hampton Bays, N.Y.

Fond memories and precious moments were mentioned as family, friends and fellow officers paid tribute to the fallen detective, who vowed to serve and protect New York City. He ended up losing his life in the process.

There was a sea of blue outside the church as thousands of officers lined the streets in solemn tribute. Southampton police estimated that more than 10,000 people could be in attendance. Police officers flooded the small town as Simonsen’s widow and mother made their way into the church. Grey skies above matched the heartache below.

Inside, an overflow crowd packed the pews for his final sendoff.

NYPD Chaplain Monsignor David Cassato offered words to the fallen detective’s heartbroken widow and mother – also a widow – who buried her second child Wednesday.

Watch The Full Funeral Service, Part 1 

“I don’t think there’s one word humanly speaking that any of us in this packed church here at St. Rosalie can say that goes to the pain you feel,” he said.

The funeral Mass marked the end of more than a week of remembrances for Simonsen, 42, who was killed in the line of duty in a tragic case of friendly fire while responding to a call in Richmond Hills, Queens last Tuesday.

Watch The Full Funeral Service, Part 2

Those who knew Simonsen nicknamed the football and baseball player “Smiles” in high school.

“Smiles, it’s like he should have been the mayor. He was the glue,” said friend Melissa Weir. “He’s such a good guy, such a larger than life personality, and a stand up guy.”

For a GoFundMe to help support Simonsen’s family, click here.

The impact of his loss spread far beyond Queens, where he worked all 19 years of his career, or the east end of Long Island, where he called home. His funeral drew officers from around the country and mourners who never got to meet him.

“All of these police officers come from all over, it chokes me up,” said Mary Howell of Shirley.

“You’re all family, no matter what department your with. And someone in your family passes away, you attend the funeral, if you can,” another man said.

Among those in attendance for the funeral was Lisa Tuozzolo, widow of Sgt. Paul Tuozzolo, who was killed in the line of duty two years ago.

“Because the men and women in blue, both here in New York City and across the country, have showed so much love and support for my family when I lost my husband, Sgt. Paul Tuozzolo, two years ago. It is the utmost importance and respect that we come and support another line of duty family. They need all of the love and care wrapped around them right now,” she said.

Mayor Bill de Blasio and Police Commissioner James O’Neill also offered their condolences.

“Take a moment to appreciate these people, your neighbors who are putting themselves in harm’s way to keep you safe. They will do everything in their power: Put your lives above their own. That’s who they are. They are the very best among us. They are the NYPD. They are Detective Brian Simonsen,” an emotional O’Neill said. “And they will always be there, fighting against violence, against brutality, against cruelty, and against anyone who wishes you harm.”

O’Neill promoted Simonsen posthumously to Detective, First Grade.

As helicopters flew overhead in the poignant missing man formation, his widow Leanne was presented with the NYPD flag that draped his casket.

Simonsen’s partner was brought to tears as he remembered his friend.

“I will miss the comfort of having Brian sit across from me in my office. I will miss his infectious laughter and the way he lit up a room. I will miss our daily conversations, whether at work or home. I will miss my partner, but mostly I will miss my friend,” Det. Ricky Waters said. “May God bless you. May God bless Detective Brian Simonsen. And may God bless the NYPD.”

“Today, New York City is heartbroken. We have a tremendous sense of loss in our community. A city so large, and yet we’re all united right now in profound grief because we have lost such a good man,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “Our hearts go out to the Simonsen family. We can only begin to imagine your pain but we feel at one with you, and we all should feel at one with our men and women who are suffering this loss.”

“I ask every New Yorker, when you see a police officer today, offer them condolences as you owuld if they lost a family member, because in fact they have,” de Blasio said.

“I think we can all agree that we have lost one of our very best,” de Blasio said.

“His oversized personality made you want to be around him. His oversized personality led his friends to call him ‘Smiles.’ My cousin was always smiling, always trying to include everybody in his life,” Simonsen’s cousin Sean Peterson said. “Brian, you lived your life to the fullest. We love and miss you. You were truly one of New York’s Finest.”

NYPD Det. Brian Simonsen (credit: CBS2)

Throughout this week, mourners paid their respects to the 19-year veteran who was killed last week while responding to a robbery in Richmond Hill, Queens.

Authorities say Simonsen was shot by friendly fire, along with Sergeant Matthew Gorman, who attended both days of the wake and the funeral while still healing in a wheelchair.

Sgt. Matthew Gorman attends the wake for fallen NYPD Det. Simonsen. (Credit: CBS2)

“It’s a tragedy of the deepest, most painful kind. Why him? How could this happen? We will learn every possible fact and draw every appropriate lesson. But it won’t be enough. It will hurt forever,” O’Neill said.

Men and women in blue from across the country and beyond, as far as the eye can see, showed up in support.

“I came from Florida. I’d come from Alaska if I had to because this means something: This family, this brotherhood,” said Officer Corey Bogus of the Miramar, Fla. Police Department.

“It sends a message of unity that we all stand together no matter where we are from in this country,” said Deputy Tammy Bennetts of the San Diego Police Department.

The funeral was punctuated with emotional, and occasionally humorous, moments.

“He taught me how to ride a bike. He put me on his bike, gave me a push, and said ‘Good luck,'” said Peterson, garnering laughs from the audience. “On March 1, 2000, Brian and I fulfilled our lifelong dream. We became part of New York’s Finest. It’s pretty safe to say it was the proudest moment of our lives.”

“When chaos erupts, most run away from the danger, but a few run toward the danger. Brian was all that and so much more. He ran in when everybody else ran out. His death was not in vain. He died doing what he loved to do,” said Peterson.

“Brian was a great detective but a better person,” said Waters. “Brian was a true friend. He never wanted anything other than to know I was OK… We would laugh every day to the point where our stomachs would hurt. He loved all you guys very much.”

In a final act of giving, Simonsen also donated his organs.

To share a message of sympathy on the funeral home’s website, click here.

Simonsen was an animal lover, so in lieu of flowers, his widow is asking that donations be made to the Healing Haven Animal Foundation. To make a donation, click here.

For a GoFundMe to help support Simonsen’s family, click here.

Teaching Teens How To Manage Their Money

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – When it comes to money know-how, a teenager’s expertise is often limited.

Teaching children how to manage money can actually help shape their future choices.

Roy Paul, executive director of Cents Ability, sat down with CBS2’s Janelle Burrell and Cindy Hsu to share some money management tips for teens.

Cents Ability executive director Roy Paul. (Credit: CBS2)

Roy says there are so many high school students who are starting to work, earning money for the first time, and there are a few things they can do to jumpstart their savings.

  • Save 20 percent of their earnings or income.
  • Open a savings or checking account.
  • Use apps… Teenagers can be incredibly tech savvy and download everything to their phones.

Monday kicks off “America saves week.” To learn more about what children can do to launch their financial futures, click here.

Filipino-Spanish Fusion Food Comes To NYC

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – There’s a new restaurant coming to the Lower East Side this spring.

Tsismis brings together a combination of Spanish and Filipino cuisines.

The new fusion restaurant’s executive chef, John Paul Diago Afzelius, shared some of the recipes customers will find on the menu with CBS2’s Janelle Burrell and Cindy Hsu.

Kabuti Sliders

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 butternut squash
  • 1 pack of sweet Hawaiian dinner rolls
  • 1 red cabbage
  • 12 pieces of baby Portobello mushrooms
  • 3 Eggs
  • 200 g. all-purpose flour
  • 200 g. panko bread crumbs
  • Salt, pepper, and olive oil

(Credit: CBS2)

How to make it:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, then cut butternut squash in half and remove seeds. Line a half-inch sheet tray with parchment paper and place the squash skin side down and season with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 90 minutes or until tender.
  2. Line another sheet tray with parchment paper. Place the mushrooms and season with salt, pepper, and olive oil on both sides. Bake for six minutes and then turn and bake for another four minutes.
  3. Once the butternut squash has cooled down, scrape it from the skin and season with salt, pepper, and olive oil and whisk in a bowl.4034858
  4. Mince red cabbage finely and season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
  5. Once the mushrooms have cooled down coat with flour, then egg, and then breadcrumbs. Deep fry at 375 degrees until golden brown.
  6. Cut dinner rolls in half and toast lightly. Spread the squash on the bottom and top buns. Place crispy mushrooms on the middle and garnish with minced red cabbage on top.

Babylou’s Fried Lumpia (Vegetable Eggroll)

Ingredients:

  • 1 Green Cabbage
  • 1 pack of egg roll wrappers
  • 2 Carrots
  • 1 pc Jicama (Mexican Turnip)
  • 3 pcs Chayote (Mexican Squash)
  • 1 pack extra firm tofu
  • 50 g. of bean sprouts
  • Salt, pepper, olive oil
  • 50 g. water
  • 25 g. all-purpose flour

(Credit: CBS2)

How to make it:

  1. Peel carrots and julienne. Peel chayote and dice finely. Peel jicama and dice finely. Open tofu and dice finely. Core green cabbage and julienne.
  2. Sautee each type of vegetable until al dente. Deep fry tofu until golden brown. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
  3. Transfer to a colander and let the water drain for an hour.
  4. Open egg roll wrappers and lay diagonally. Put mixture in about a third of the way from the bottom and fold and tighten. Fold sides and continue to roll until the tip.
  5. Whisk flour and water mixture and use it to seal the tip of the egg roll.
  6. Deep fry at 375 degrees until golden brown.

Investigators Trying To Piece Together Events Leading Up To Deadly LIRR Crash

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WESTBURY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) – What happened before two trains collided with a truck on the Long Island Rail Road tracksTuesday night, killing all three occupants of the vehicle?

Investigators on Wednesday were working tirelessly to piece together the evidence as crews continued working to repair the damage caused by the deadly crash.

Despite their efforts, the agency announced late Wednesday the railroad would continue to operate limited rush hour service Thursday morning.

Three men were killed in the fiery collision and everyone on the trains survived, even though several train cars were badly damaged after crashing into the platform.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK EVENING COMMUTE SERVICE CHANGES

MTA workers have been working all day trying to re-rail the train cars, the first step in getting the LIRR moving again on both tracks through Westbury.

Extraordinary damage to the concrete platform and train cars is still visible: A tragic portrait of how devastating it is when a car tries – and fails – to beat a moving train.

The concrete platform is partially crumbled, the derailed train cars mangled, and the passenger vehicle obliterated. Three lives were lost and two branches of the nation’s busiest commuter railroad crippled.

It’s all the result of what officials say was an avoidable tragedy.

“We can not this enough: Please do not try to beat the train,” said Nassau County Executive Laura Curran. “There is nothing so important.”

It was 7:20 p.m. last night when a car that drove around closed gates was struck by a fast moving eastbound train, and then a Manhattan-bound train. One thousand panicked passengers were evacuated.

“The whole car, the train car, just shook very hard, and then the entire train came to a stop,” one passenger said.

Web Extra: LIRR President Philip Eng On Crash

The engineer and a passenger were trapped by flying concrete.

“The engineer did a great job. He saw the impact. When he hit the platform, he ran towards the rear away from it, almost like a movie scene, coming through the front. And there was also a civilian there that he pushed out of the way,” said Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder.

Seven passengers were sent to hospitals, including three with serious but not life-threatening injuries. Some passengers suffered spine injuries and internal bleeding, officials said.

As MTA crews worked through the day to re-rail the train, coworkers at the Fine Fair supermarket mourned three men they identified as the victims in the car. Jesus Hernandez, Saul Martinez, Miguel Luna were all employees. There’s a memorial and collection for their families at the checkout.

The three were seen on surveillance video Tuesday arriving for a barber shop haircut. They then headed to the bar next door, and later can be seen getting into their car just feet from the School Street railroad crossing.

Police confirm there was a crash in front of the closed gates moments before the train impact.

“There was a minor accident that did occur at the gate with the vehicles before the individuals left,” said Ryder. “The witness said that individual was involved in the accident and went around the gate.”

MTA President Fernando Ferrer paused to honor the victims at a board meeting.

“I’d like to ask for a moment of silence in remembrance of those people who died last night,” Ferrer said.

At the meeting, questions were raised about why gates don’t fully block cars from driving around.

“Whatever mechanism we put in not only safely prevents vehicles from being able to cross the tracks when the gates are down but also allows them to exit when the gates are down,” LIRR President Philip Eng said.

The MTA has an education campaign to warn drivers they can’t beat a moving train.

While fatal crashes are on the decline, there have been six in the last decade on Long Island.

Of 300 grade crossings, seven are being eliminated. For now, there are no estimates yet on how much it will cost to repair the 300 feet of concrete damaged and the train cars.

One MTA member suggested legislation to require the driver’s car insurance to pay for damage to the system like this.

“It’s too early to say,” when 100 percent service would be restored, Eng said.

Shuttle buses will supplement service in the interim.

“It’s an unfortunate situation. It’s a tragic situation. Why people risk their lives and risk other people’s lives perhaps to save a few minutes I can’t answer because I would never put myself in that situation,” Eng said. “MTA, Long Island Rail Road and our sister agencies are very focused on safety.”

‘We Urge You To Reconsider:’ Queens Lawmakers, Business Leaders Pen Open Letter To Amazon

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Dozens of New York politicians and business leaders are desperate for a deal to win back Amazon.

They wrote an open letter in today’s New York Times to convince the online retail giant that New York City is still the prime choice.

The letter, addressed to Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, reads in part, “A clear majority of New Yorkers support this project and were disappointed by your decision not to proceed… We urge you to reconsider so that we can move forward together.”

Web Extra: Click here to read the complete letter.

Amazon officials decided to walk away from the deal last month, saying the opposition of some state and local lawmakers would make it difficult to proceed with a second headquarters in Long Island City, Queens.

State Senator Todd Kaminsky On NYC Congestion Pricing, Amazon HQ Deal

Gov. Andrew Cuomo said he’s been in talks with multiple high-level Amazon executives by phone.

“I’ve had many conversations with Amazon,” he said. “I hope that they reconsider.”

MORE: Cuomo: Amazon Backing Out ‘The Greatest Tragedy I Have Seen Since I Have Been In Government’

Josh Bowen, who owns a restaurant in LIC, was banking on Amazon as a neighbor and the prospect of the 25,000 jobs it was supposed to bring.

“Is this stupidity and madness actually even possible?” he said Thursday. “This is a tragedy for Long Island City.”

Eager to change the company’s mind, he flew to Seattle himself, somehow landing a meeting with John Schoettler, Amazon’s vice president for global real estate and facilities.

“Never say never is the words that were spoke to me,” Bowen said. “That’s not a confirmation, but for a New Yorker, that means we got work to do.”

MORE: De Blasio Says Amazon ‘Just Plain Walked Away’ From NYC, Residents Still Divided On Failed Deal

The issue even came during an economic conference Friday at Hofstra University.

“I don’t want to sound over dramatic, but it felt like a stake in the heart,” said Nassau County Executive Laura Curran.

But if Cuomo manages to seal the deal, can local residents count on it happening?

“Well if they bail again, that’s on them, that’s not on us, because we tried our hardest to say, ‘hey, we made a mistake, whatever you want, come back here,'” one resident said.

Not everyone is on board with the plan to sweet talk Amazon. On Friday, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, one of several lawmakers who lead the Amazon opposition said “If the elected officials spent half as much time talking to the community as they do Jeff Bezos, we might have come to an agreement.”

Local artist Noah Nagi also voiced his opposition.

“This is one of the spots where you can still do something, and if Amazon comes here, that could potentially be a problem,” he said.

Make the Road New York, an organization that represents low-income New Yorkers, issued a statement about the governor’s continued pursuit, saying, “Andrew Cuomo needs to stop groveling at the feet of corporations and billionaires and start listening to our communities, who overwhelmingly reject this deal.”

New York Weather: Plows, Power Crews Work To Clean Up Heavy, Wet Snow

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Tri-State Area residents woke up to measurable snow Monday.

For many, it was the most significant of the season.

MORE: Check The Forecast | School Closings | Survival Guide

New York City public schools were closed, along with dozens across the area. City schools will reopen Tuesday, the mayor tweeted.

The city’s sanitation department had 1,600 plows and nearly 700 salt spreaders treating the roads.

Web Extra: NYC OEM Assistant Commissioner Shares Update On Storm Cleanup

“We’re monitoring the situation as we get through the morning commute, but I think the city was pretty lucky. The storm could have gone one of two ways, and I think we fared the best we could,” Office of Emergency Management Assistant Commissioner Jonathan Jenkins told CBS2.

“Be careful. It’s slippery, it’s wet,” he added. “So far, so good. Just give yourself extra time this morning.”

Watch: CBS2’s Janelle Burrell In Downtown Brooklyn

CBS2’s Janelle Burrell spoke with commuters in Downtown Brooklyn, where things were unusually quiet for the morning rush.

Shane McGrane, of Long Island, was headed for the slopes. “It’s a little slushy out here, but I’m really looking forward to hopefully getting some fresh powder when I get to the mountains,” he said.

Watch: CBS2’s Tony Aiello In New Rochelle

Areas north and west of the city saw up to 10 inches of accumulation, with some of the highest totals in Danbury, Conn., Highland Lakes, N.J. and Spring Valley, N.Y.

A good example of heavy and wet the snow proved to be? A Skid Steer being used to scoop snow at a New Rochelle car dealership tipped over as it tried to empty a load on the median of Palmer Road.

Three attempts to pull the vehicle back down ended with the strap breaking.

Eventually, workers decided to shovel the snow out from the bucket, and a worker fired up the unit and moved the arms until the wheels returned to the ground.

“Unfortunately, it happed, but thank God nobody got hurt. We’re good,” he said.

The heavy snow also took down tree limbs and power lines. One fallen limb caused power to fail at 17 homes in Mount Vernon.

“What’s your message to Con Ed?” CBS2’s Tony Aiello asked.

“Get it back on. It’s very, very cold. Our refrigerators are packed. We don’t want to waste food,” said resident Sharon McKay.

Watch: CBS2’s Aundrea Cline-Thomas In Tarrytown

CBS2’s Aundrea Cline-Thomas heard from a public works plow driver in Tarrytown, where crews worked around the clock to keep the roads clear.

“At times we couldn’t see when we were plowing the roads. As of right now, the main roads look pretty good, they’re all black, wet. Secondary roads a little iffy, a little slushy,” said Joseph Apollonio. “We have a full crew out, we’ve been out since 8-o-clock last night and we’re still going.”

Commuter Kevin Giblin said their hard work paid off.

“The roads look great. I see the blacktop, doesn’t seem too icy out either. So I think on the roads it’s going to be pretty good this morning. But as far as walking, some of the sidewalks aren’t too well kept, but I understand because it just got over,” he said. “So far it looks like a good morning, hopefully it’s an easy commute for everyone.”

Watch: CBS2’s Jennifer McLogan In Mineola

Those who CBS2’s Jennifer McLogan spoke with at the LIRR station in Mineola were impressed with the cleanup, too.

“Not as bad as I thought it would be. So go MTA, go everyone,” said Matt Duffy, of Garden City. “What I think they need to be concerned about now is the ice. That will be the problem. Hopefully by tomorrow, we won’t have any delays.”

Sabine Victome was dropping off her son, who missed his plane and had to catch a train back to school.

“The driving was fine. They cleaned up the roads pretty well,” she said.

Watch: CBS2’s Jenna DeAngelis In Morristown

While driving conditions were better than expected, thousands of people were left without power. As of 7 a.m., roughly 10,000 customers were in the dark across New Jersey. Another 2,000 were affected in Westchester County.

Reporting Power Outages

New York:

New Jersey:

Connecticut:

LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy International and Newark Liberty International airports reported dozens of cancelations Monday. Travelers should check with their carriers and leave extra time.

Travel Delays

Next, icing will be a concern as temperatures drop below freezing.


Man In Custody Following Deadly Shooting Of 15-Year-Old Boy In Brooklyn

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – The NYPD has a man in custody in connection with the deadly shooting of a 15-year-old boy last month in Brooklyn.

Samuel Joseph, 15, was shot and killed on Feb. 22 in East Flatbush.

(Credit: Joseph Family)

Police said 20-year-old Martial Amilcar was taken in for questioning Monday night.

Amilcar was allegedly captured on camera, along with another man in red sweatpants, near the scene where Joseph was shot. They were later seen riding in a four-door car.

(Credit: NYPD)

Investigators said the friendly, funny and athletic teen was an innocent bystander – not the intended target of the spray of bullets that struck him in the face, neck and chest.

“He was just a good kid,” family spokesperson, Don Joseph, said.

Witnesses said they saw a suspect waiting outside the family’s building on Flatbush Ave, firing a weapon as Joseph was getting food.

“For something like this to happen so close to where I live, it’s a tragedy,” said a woman named Patricia who lives nearby. “I hope somebody recognizes him.”

MORE: Family: 15-Year-Old Shot Dead On Way To Grocery Store In Brooklyn

His devastated mother and community leaders are pleading for the public’s help in bringing his killer to justice.

“Any information will help the police department put together the pieces to solve the puzzle. We can get this gun off the streets, we can get the person responsible off the street,” said Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams.

Joseph was the youngest of five children.

Anyone with information about Joseph’s death is asked to call NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish. You can also submit a tip via the Crime Stoppers website, by Tweeting @NYPDTips or by texting a tip to 274637 (CRIMES) and then entering TIP577.

Pair Of Burglars Suspected Of Breaking Into 9 Homes In Queens

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Police believe a pair of burglars have targeted at least nine homes in Queens since November.

CBS2’s Janelle Burrell first reported on their burglary spree in Woodside last week.

(Credit: NYPD)

Now, police say the suspects have struck three more times since then.

The most recent incident happened around 10:30 a.m. last Sunday morning near 43rd Street and 35th Avenue in Astoria. Surveillance video shows a man attempt to get into a woman’s home by pushing in a window air conditioner.

Police said the woman spotted the suspect through a window and he took off.

(Credit: NYPD)

The men have made off with tens of thousands of dollars worth of jewelry, electronics, cash and checks.

All of the reported incidents happened during the daylight hours.

Anyone with information about the burglary spree is asked to call NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish. You can also submit a tip via the Crime Stoppers website, by Tweeting @NYPDTips or by texting a tip to 274637 (CRIMES) and then entering TIP577.

Mets Teammates, Fans Saddened By News Tom Seaver Has Been Diagnosed With Dementia

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – New York Mets legendary pitcher Tom Seaver is retiring from public life after being diagnosed with dementia.

The news from his family comes as the Mets are preparing to mark the 50th anniversary of their 1969 World Series victory.

Seaver is a living baseball legend, nicknamed “Tom Terrific” and “The Franchise,” who was once considered the heart of the team.

The famed pitcher with the champion 1969 Miracle Mets is now taking on perhaps his toughest opponent in his 74 years.

Web Extra: CBS2’s Otis Livingtson Talks Tom Seaver’s Dementia Diagnosis 

“When I heard it today, it was a little bit of a shock, but I also understood,” said former teammate Art Shamsky.

Shamsky said when he met Seaver about a year and a half ago to work on the soon-to-be-released book, “After the Miracle,” Shamsky knew then something was off.

“Hopefully he’ll be able to deal with it, the family will be able to deal with it,” he said. “I hate to use the word ‘was,’ because I feel like it still is, but – Tom was a very, very special person.”

The Seaver family said in a statement, “The family is deeply appreciative of those who have supported Tom throughout his career, on and off the field, and who do so now by honoring his request for privacy.”

They said he will continue to work on his beloved winery at his California home, but his health will prevent him from attending the 50th anniversary of the Miracle Mets celebration in June. So the team is planning to honor him with other tributes, which will include his family.

Fellow Hall of Famer Mike Piazza tweeted, “So sad to hear Tom Seaver has dementia. He will always be the heart and soul of the @Mets ,the standard which all Mets aspire to, this breaks my heart. Do not feel worthy to be mentioned in the same breath, yet honored to be with him in the @baseballhall #Mets #MLB”

For Mets fans, like Justin Cabrera who named his puppy Seaver after his baseball hero, the news was a shock.

“Very difficult for us to be hearing this news now about our longtime favorite,” he said.

“It’s very sad. He’s such a great ball player,” said fan Nestor Wachoski.

“It’s hard to argue who would be better than him and what he meant to the team, and the franchise and the city,” Shamsky added.

Until 2016, Seaver held the highest vote percentage for Hall of Fame induction at 98.84 percent. His 20-year career included three Cy Young Awards, 12 All Star game appearances and that 1969 World Series win.

Millennial Money: Author Shares Financial Tips For Young Adults

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Juggling your finances can be tricky, especially for millennials.

Millennial women are believed to have certain obstacles in their path when it comes to smart money management as well.

Natalie Elisha Gold, author of “The Millennial’s Guide to the Universe: How to Live the New International Dream,” sat down with CBS2’s Cindy Hsu and Janelle Burrell to share some financial tips for young adults.

(Credit: CBS2)

Some of Gold’s money tips include:

  • Know your worth
  • Get your basics in place
  • Make saving part of the fabric
  • Bet on your youth

Emergency Landing Temporarily Shutters Newark Airport, 2 Injured

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NEWARK, N.J. (CBSNewYork) – Newark Liberty International Airport was temporarily shut down Saturday morning after a plane was forced to make an emergency landing.

According to the FAA, an Air Transat flight headed from Montreal to Florida was forced to divert to New Jersey after the pilot reported either smoke or a fire in the plane’s cargo area around 8:30 a.m.

Fire crews quickly responded and evacuated passengers from the aircraft using emergency slides.

Airport officials closed all runways during the emergency, but reopened the airport shortly before 10 a.m. Delays resulting from the shutdown reportedly grew to over 90 minutes early Saturday. 

Two people suffered minor injuries during the evacuation, according to officials.

Sources tell CBS2 that airport officials still haven’t confirmed if a fire actually broke out in the cargo area. The aircraft was taken to a maintenance base as workers continue to investigate the emergency.

Massive Fire Rips Through Plumbing Supply Co. In Glen Cove

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GLEN COVE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) – A massive fire ripped through a commercial building overnight in Glen Cove on Long Island.

Crews from several nearby towns helped battle the blaze – some from the ground and some from the water.

Flames broke out around 10 p.m. Monday at Cove Plumbing Supply on Morris Avenue near Shore Road.

Firefighters used boats from a nearby inlet of Hempstead Harbor to pour more water onto the flames, knocking them down about three hours later.

No injuries were reported.

There’s no word on what caused the fire.

New Details Revealed In Shooting Death Of ‘Franky Boy’ Cali, Reputed Gambino Crime Boss

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) — It’s considered to be one of the biggest mob hits in decades.

A reputed Gambino boss was gunned down in front his home on Staten Island on Wednesday night, and sources told CBS2 it may have been an inside job.

Watch: NYPD News Conference On Killing Of Francesco Cali

Investigators are working multiple angles, looking into possible motives and possible suspects in this case and said police have video from a distance of one of the suspects they are looking for.

Frank Cali (credit: CBS2)

While Francesco Cali’s Todt Hill home remained a crime scene Thursday, his death marked the first murder of a mob boss in New York City in more than 30 years. His upscale neighborhood was teaming with detectives after the driveway outside of his stately brick home was the bloody scene of what’s believed to have been a brazen mafia hit.

Authorities say it’s not clear if there was more than one gunman involved.

Neighbors returning home Thursday morning were stunned by the news. Others said they heard the gunshots.

Investigators said it was around 9:17 p.m. on Wednesday when 53-year-old Cali was outside of his car in his driveway when the gunfire began.

RELATED: Murder Of ‘Franky Boy’ Cali Highlights History Between Mafia & NYC

“Mr. Cali is widely reported to be associated, on the Internet and in newspapers and prior writings, to be associated with organized crime. He exits his residence, has a conversation with an individual where approximately 12 shots are fired, with at least six striking the victim, causing his demise,” NYPD Chief of Detectives Dermot Shea said. “Needless to say, with the potential organized crime angle, it gets the utmost importance to the NYPD and the entire detective bureau.”

“It remains a very active homicide investigation at this point. I think it’s a little preliminary to be making judgments on motive. But certainly Mr. Cali’s prior dealings, he’s been arrested prior by the feds, are a focal point at this point of the investigation, but nothing is being ruled out,” Shea said.

Shea said there were “video accounts of what took place,” but wouldn’t elaborate further. The incident apparently began when a pickup truck backed up and hit Cali’s SUV, which was parked.

“You can see on video that that car belonging to the victim rocks significantly, so it took some force to do that,” Shea said.

The crash may have been a setup, according to investigators.

“It appears quite possible that that was part of a plan” to get Cali out of the house, Shea said. “Don’t read too far into that, it’s a little preliminary.”

Cali then came out of the house and spoke with the driver of the pickup. About a minute after the conversation started, the gunman – a 25-40 year-old man – opened fire.

Cali ran to the back of his SUV to try to elude the gunfire, Shea said.

“We do have a pickup truck that flees the scene and we’re very interested with that pickup truck and we’ll be putting out photos of that,” Shea said.

Cali’s wife and young children were reportedly inside their home when he was shot. The reputed mob boss was rushed to Staten Island University Hospital North, where he was later pronounced dead.

“We have executed a warrant at that residence. We have obtained video surveillance from that scene. We’re piecing together witness canvasses, extended video canvasses. There is reports of a car pulling away. That is accurate. Again, it’s a little preliminary to say that car is definitively tied to anything or that that’s the only car or that there weren’t additional people on foot. So this is a very early stage of this investigation and we have a lot of work to do,” Shea said.

Shea said what connection this may have to other suspected recent mob activity – such as the killing of a man at a drive-through at a Bronx McDonald’s – will all be part of the investigation.

Sources said since 2015 Cali, nicknamed “Franky Boy,” had been one of three members of the so-called “ruling council” of the Gambino crime family.

Before rising to the level of boss, Cali served a 16-month sentence in federal prison for extortion for a failed NASCAR racetrack project on Staten Island.

Cali was said to have kept a low profile while running a heroin and prescription drug operation.

“He was one of the most influential organized crime figures currently alive in the New York City metropolitan area,” said former FBI agent and organized crime expert David Shapiro. “I think Mr. Cali was worth more dead than alive. He posed a threat to someone.”

Police sources say cops are now looking into several theories, including the possibility that some Gambino family members disapproved of the family’s involvement in drugs, that a rogue member of the family had a personal beef with Cali and took him out, or that a rival organized crime group like the Albanians could be involved.

“We know there used to be a mob presence here,” neighbor Will Curitore said. “We thought this was one of the safer neighborhoods on Staten Island.”

“I guess unless you’re in the mafia,” Karen Curitore added.

Cali’s SUV was taken by flatbed, with a cover. Police are hoping the gunman might have left fingerprints on the exterior of the vehicle.

The last crime family boss to be shot in New York City was Paul Castellano. The Gambino kingpin was assassinated outside Sparks Steakhouse in Manhattan in 1985.

The Gambino Family was once among the most powerful criminal organizations in the U.S., but federal prosecutions in the 1980s and 1990s sent its top leaders to prison and diminished its reach.

(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)


Technology Playing Key Role In Murder Investigation Of Reputed Gambino Crime Boss ‘Franky Boy’ Cali

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) — Investigators are poring over every lead in their investigation into the shooting death of a reputed Gambino mob boss.

Francesco Cali was gunned down in front his home on Staten Island on Wednesday night. It’s considered to be one of the biggest mob hits in decades.

Watch: NYPD News Conference On Killing Of Francesco Cali

Police have recovered video of the incident, but it is said to be grainy and shows a distant view of the shooting.

Frank Cali (credit: CBS2)

Authorities secured a second search warrant which allowed them to begin searching Cali’s home Thursday night. Investigators are hoping to find some clue in Cali’s computer, phone, or emails that will reveal if he was in contact with his killer before the shooting.

Sources tell CBS2 that investigators are also poring over license plate reader data collected in the area that night to see if they can track down the pickup. Red light and speed cameras are also being reviewed. MTA bus cameras in the area are also being checked.

The getaway vehicle has not yet been recovered.

The fact that there are limited ways to get on and off Staten Island is helpful in the investigation, sources said.

Investigators said it was around 9:17 p.m. on Wednesday when 53-year-old Cali was outside of his car in his driveway when the gunfire began.

RELATED: Murder Of ‘Franky Boy’ Cali Highlights History Between Mafia & NYC

The incident apparently began when a blue pickup truck backed up and hit Cali’s SUV, which was parked.

“You can see on video that that car belonging to the victim rocks significantly, so it took some force to do that,” Shea said.

The crash may have been a setup, according to investigators.

“It appears quite possible that that was part of a plan” to get Cali out of the house, Shea said. “Don’t read too far into that, it’s a little preliminary.”

Cali then came out of the house and spoke with the driver of the pickup. About a minute after the conversation started, the gunman – a 25-40 year-old man – opened fire.

Cali ran to the back of his SUV to try to elude the gunfire, Shea said.

“We do have a pickup truck that flees the scene and we’re very interested with that pickup truck and we’ll be putting out photos of that,” Shea said.

Cali’s wife and young children were reportedly inside their home when he was shot. The reputed mob boss was rushed to Staten Island University Hospital North, where he was later pronounced dead.

“We have executed a warrant at that residence. We have obtained video surveillance from that scene. We’re piecing together witness canvasses, extended video canvasses. There is reports of a car pulling away. That is accurate. Again, it’s a little preliminary to say that car is definitively tied to anything or that that’s the only car or that there weren’t additional people on foot. So this is a very early stage of this investigation and we have a lot of work to do,” Shea said.

Shea said what connection this may have to other suspected recent mob activity – such as the killing of a man at a drive-through at a Bronx McDonald’s – will all be part of the investigation.

Sources said since 2015 Cali, nicknamed “Franky Boy,” had been one of three members of the so-called “ruling council” of the Gambino crime family.

Before rising to the level of boss, Cali served a 16-month sentence in federal prison for extortion for a failed NASCAR racetrack project on Staten Island.

Cali was said to have kept a low profile while running a heroin and prescription drug operation.

“He was one of the most influential organized crime figures currently alive in the New York City metropolitan area,” said former FBI agent and organized crime expert David Shapiro. “I think Mr. Cali was worth more dead than alive. He posed a threat to someone.”

Police sources say cops are now looking into several theories, including the possibility that some Gambino family members disapproved of the family’s involvement in drugs, that a rogue member of the family had a personal beef with Cali and took him out, or that a rival organized crime group like the Albanians could be involved.

“We know there used to be a mob presence here,” neighbor Will Curitore said. “We thought this was one of the safer neighborhoods on Staten Island.”

“I guess unless you’re in the mafia,” Karen Curitore added.

Investigators added that since the only way to get off Staten island is by a bridge of ferry they’re hopeful that Friday’s electronic sweep of those transit records will provide police with a lead in the case.

Cali’s SUV was taken away by flatbed and under a cover. Police are hoping the gunman might have left fingerprints on the exterior of the vehicle.

The last crime family boss to be shot in New York City was Paul Castellano. The Gambino kingpin was assassinated outside Sparks Steakhouse in Manhattan in 1985.

The Gambino Family was once among the most powerful criminal organizations in the U.S., but federal prosecutions in the 1980s and 1990s sent its top leaders to prison and diminished its reach.

(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

Florida Man Accused Of Mailing Pipe Bombs To Prominent Democrats Pleads Guilty In NYC Court

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AT-A-GLANCE

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) – A Florida man accused of sending pipe bombs to prominent Democratic figures last fall entered a guilty plea Thursday in Manhattan.

Cesar Sayoc, 57, sobbed as he entered the plea before a federal judge in New York.

“I’m extremely sorry,” he said, adding that he never intended for the devices to explode.

Cesar Sayoc, 56, has been held without bail since his arrest last October.

credit: Cesar Sayoc

He was accused of sending 16 explosive devices to critics of President Donald Trump, including former President Barack Obama, former Vice President Joe Biden, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former Vice President Joe Biden, actor Robert De Niro, multiple members of Congress. Devices were also sent to CNN offices in Atlanta and New York. None of the devices exploded.

The explosive devices began showing up weeks before the midterm elections in 2018. On Thursday, Sayoc told the judge he made the devices to look like pipe bombs and filled them with explosive powder from fireworks.

Sayoc was arrested in October at a Florida auto parts store. He had been living in a van covered with pro-Trump stickers and images of Trump critics and political opponents with crosshairs on their faces.

READ:
U.S. v. Cesar Sayoc Indictment S1
U.S. v. Cesar Sayoc Plea Agreement

Sayoc faces at least 30 charges, including five counts of using a weapon of mass destruction, which carries a maximum life sentence.

By taking a plea Thursday, he will avoid going to trial, which was scheduled for July.

He could get life in prison at sentencing Sept. 12 on 65 counts, including using weapons of mass destruction and mailing explosives with intent to kill. In exchange for his guilty plea, prosecutors dropped a charge that carried a mandatory life sentence.

“Did you intend they would explode?” U.S. District Judge Jed Rakoff asked on Thursday.

“No, sir,” Sayoc said.

“What would prevent powder from fireworks from exploding?” Rakoff asked.

“I was aware of the risk they would explode,” Sayoc said.

The first of the bombs was discovered Oct. 22 in a mailbox at an estate in New York City’s northern suburbs owned by the billionaire George Soros, a liberal political activist and frequent subject of conspiracy theories.

A device addressed to the Clintons was discovered the following day, followed a day later by a slew of bombs found at the homes or offices of prominent Democrats. One, addressed to former CIA director John Brennan, was sent to CNN in New York.

Others targeted included California Sen. Kamala Harris and New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker.

Over several days, investigators tracked the packages to a mail center in Florida. Prosecutors said the evidence against Sayoc included DNA that linked him to 10 of the devices and fingerprints on two of them.

(© Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

Man Accused Of Repeatedly Groping Woman In Brooklyn – Even While She Called 911

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Police are on the lookout for a man accused of repeatedly groping a woman last weekend in Downtown Brooklyn.

Authorities said he continued to attack her while she called 911 for help.

It happened around 12:35 a.m. Saturday on Dekalb Avenue near Ashland Place.

(Credit: NYPD)

Investigators said the suspect was following the 29-year-old victim on the street, trying to engage her in conversation. When she refused, he allegedly began slapping her backside.

The suspect then followed the victim into Dekalb Deli, where she borrowed someone’s phone to call 911, police said. He allegedly continued slapping her during the call.

The man eventually took off, heading south on Ashland Place.

Police said they’re searching for a black man, 30 to 35 years old, 6 feet 1 inches tall, 160 to 170 pounds, last seen wearing a black baseball cap, black jacket, gray sweatpants and black sneakers.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to call NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish. You can also submit a tip via the Crime Stoppers website, by Tweeting @NYPDTips or by texting a tip to 274637 (CRIMES) and then entering TIP577.

NYPD ‘Eagle Teams’ Cracking Down On Bus Fare Skipping

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – According to MTA officials, people skipping out on paying fares on city buses led to more than $128 million in lost revenue last year alone.

Now New York City Transit Authority President Andy Byford is calling for more police officers to patrol buses, reports CBS2’s Janelle Burrell.

Byford says they need police officers boarding to buses to make it clear that people cannot board a bus for free.

Up until now, their focus on busting fare evaders has been centered on MTA Select buses where riders need a paper receipt as proof of payment.

Since 2012, the MTA has been using so-called Eagle Teams, people who are usually retired police officers on board the buses to randomly check for receipts.

Officials say that has helped deter people from not paying. They have already issued more than 5,000 summonses so far this year.

But Byford says actual uniformed and plain clothes officers on board buses is what’s needed to stop people from not paying fares.

The MTA Transit chief says they plan to start with a small group of officers.

“It will not be a large unit, said NYPD Transit Chief Edward Delatorre. “I need more personnel but I heard the concerns of the board. We’ll measure the response results to see if we change behavior and gain more compliance on the buses.”

MTA officials have started putting Eagle Teams on regular MTA bus routes as well hoping for the same success.

The chief and Transit Authority president say they will take a look at the results of this pilot to decide what their next steps will be.

L.I. Man Accused Of Secretly Recording Women At Tanning Salons

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LEVITTOWN, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) — A Long Island man is accused of secretly recording women at tanning salons.

Customers of Beach Bum Tanning were appalled to hear of the disturbing allegations. Police said a fellow customer of the salon was recording them as they were tanning in what they thought were private rooms, CBS2’s Janelle Burrell reported Wednesday.

“It’s disgusting. It’s embarrassing. I didn’t even know about it,” customer Deborah Konetsky said.

A Long Island man is accused of secretly recording women at tanning salons. (Credit: Nassau County Police Department)

Konetsky was clearly repulsed after learning what 22-year-old Jake Gabler-Colotti is accused of doing. According to investigators, the occasional customer was caught in the act inside by a female customer inside the Levittown salon. She said she saw him recording her while she was tanning in a private room.

“After she walked out of the room, she made a complaint to the manager behind the desk and the manager took action,” a co-owner of the store told CBS2’s Burrell.

MORENJ Man Sentenced For Secretly Filming Naked Child For 3 Years

The co-owner, who identified himself only as “Rudy,” said police were called and Gabler-Colotti was taken into custody at the salon soon after.

“Usually, the tanning rooms are private, but the tops are open. So, I guess maybe somebody is leaving something in the room. You just never know,” local resident Hillary Raines said.

“You know, if you’re in a dressing room of a department store or something like this, it would occur,” the co-owner added.

FLASHBACK: Teen Charged With Videotaping Girl Undress At N.J. School

Investigators said other customers later complained that Gabler-Colotti allegedly recorded them at other Beach Bum locations, in Plainview and Seaford.

“He was basically taking his video camera (and) he would enter a tanning salon booth. He would place that video camera on top of a ledge and videotape either the one victim to the left or the right in the other tanning both,” Nassau County Police Det. Lt. Richard LeBrun said.

CBS2 went to Gabler-Colotti’s home in Wantagh, but no one answered the door.

Customers of the salon were unsettled, not knowing how many people the man allegedly spied on.

It’s a lesson that you can never be too careful.

“I’m glad that he got caught,” Tiffany Hart said. “It’s obviously horrible to know that somebody … but this is the world we live in now. Things happen and it could happen anywhere.”

Gabler-Colotti was charged with unlawful surveillance, and police said there may be even more victims. Meanwhile, the co-owner of the salon said he’s working with security companies, looking into options to better monitor the business.

Investigators said anyone who feels they may have been recorded should contact Second Squad at (516) 573-6253 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS.

Yankees, Mets Fans Celebrate Opening Day Of Baseball Season

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Baseball is back!

It’s MLB Opening Day, and both the Yankees and Mets hit the field this afternoon.

Former pitching great Mariano Rivera threw out the ceremonial first pitch as the Bombers beat the Baltimore Orioles, 7-2. 

The core of the roster will return this season, and they’re determined to win.

Last year, the season ended at the hands of their arch rivals, the Boston Red Sox, who later went on to win the World Series.

PHOTOS: Opening Day At Yankee Stadium

“I’d like to think we’re hungry, regardless of the result from last year, but there’s no doubt about it that, especially for a lot of these guys going back now a couple of years, they’ve had a couple good teams here that have been close, and the feeling of disappointment of it ending when you feel like you have a team capable of greatness,” manager Aaron Boone said.

MORE: Steinbrenner: Yankees Are A Championship-Caliber Team

The thrill of opening day never gets old for the players or the fans. It’s a chance to look ahead, with a nod to the tradition.

“Just playing at Yankee Stadium, just the history here and the ones that wore these pinstripes before us. And for all of us to go out there and get an opportunity to do that same thing, it’s just a special moment,” said outfielder Aaron Judge.

Last year, the game was postponed because of snow. This year, it’s a different story.

MORE: Yankee Stadium Unveils New Menu For 2019 Baseball Season

“This is a much better weather situation than it was last year,” fan Peter Anderson told CBS2’s Steve Overmyer.

It’s a family affair for the Chris Moroni and his son Tyler.

“It’s a tradition for us, and even I had school today, but my dad let me go here,” Tyler said.

“It’s a holiday. As far as I’m concerned, it should be a national holiday,” Chris added.

Congestion Pricing Plan To Allocate Funds For LIRR, Metro-North, Reports Say

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Gov. Andrew Cuomo has said his controversial congestion pricing proposal would bring in billions of dollars to fix the subways.

Now, there’s reportedly a plan to share that money with the suburbs.

Congestion pricing could get the green light as soon as Monday, as part of the state’s new budget.

Web Extra: Read Cuomo’s Congestion Pricing Plan

According to a Newsday report, a tentative agreement has been reached to pass the plan, which would include an infusion of funding for commuter rails.

The deal is said to allocate 10 percent of the revenue – about $1 billion – to the Long Island Rail Road and another 10 percent to Metro-North. The remaining 80 percent would go toward the city’s subways and buses.

MORE: Exclusive: Mad Scramble On In Albany To See Who Will Get A Break If Congestion Pricing Is Approved

Lawmakers from the suburbs that rely on commuter rail service have made it clear their constituents need to benefit from the plan as well in order for them to support the bill.

If passed, congestion pricing would raise billions of dollars in revenue for the aging subway system and commuter rails, and supporters hope it will also reduce congestion by charging drivers who travel below 60th Street in Manhattan.

The budget deadline is set for April 1.






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