NYC Congressional Candidate Comments on Shooting Involving ICE Officer

<p>New York Democratic congressional candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier stated during an interview with Twitch streamer Hasan Piker that the criminal record of a man shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer is not relevant. The comments followed the shooting of Oscar Belgal, a 28-year-old Dominican Republic national, during a targeted operation by ICE to arrest him.</p><p>The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported that Belgal, who is allegedly in the country illegally, did not comply with officers' lawful orders. Chevalier and Piker criticized authorities for emphasizing Belgal's criminal history, arguing that it did not justify the use of force.</p><p>During the incident, Belgal reportedly moved his vehicle forward before an officer fired seven rounds, hitting him below the left ear, according to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Tisch noted that Belgal had two prior arrests, including robbery and the criminal sale of a controlled substance.</p><p>DHS indicated that Belgal has a prior grand larceny conviction and previous arrests for assault, robbery, drug possession, and weapons possession, as well as ties to the Trinitarios street gang. Piker questioned the validity of the ICE apprehension based on Belgal's criminal record.</p><p>Chevalier expressed her frustration with Tisch's remarks, asserting that the criminal history should not be a factor in the discussion. She stated, "It doesn’t even matter." Piker added that even if Belgal had committed violent crimes, it would not justify the shooting by ICE.</p><p>Chevalier also criticized Tisch for what she perceived as an attempt to villainize Belgal rather than condemning the actions of ICE. An NYPD spokesperson clarified that the police commissioner was providing factual updates on the incident, which typically includes criminal history when available.</p><p>The New York State Republican Committee responded to Chevalier's comments, asserting that they demonstrate a shift in the Democratic Party's stance. NY GOP communications director David Laska stated that the facts indicate Belgal resisted arrest and that ICE agents acted lawfully.</p>