NYCLU Statement on NYPD Sweep of Unhoused Encampment in the East Village

NEW YORK CITY – Today, the City removed and demolished unhoused individuals’ shelters and belongings near Tompkins Square Park which resulted in several arrests. The NYCLU had monitors present.

The following statement is attributable to NYCLU Executive Director Donna Lieberman:

“With today’s raid in the East Village, Mayor Adams made a cruel example of a handful of New Yorkers in need. His agencies removed and destroyed people’s personal belongings, leaving them more vulnerable. To drive home its point, the administration deployed the NYPD’s Strategic Response Group, an abusive unit designed for counter-terrorism. The Mayor’s attempt to police away homelessness and sweep individuals out of sight is a page from the failed Giuliani playbook. With no real plan for housing, services, or supports, the administration is choosing handcuffs.”