Former NY Governor and Stepson Attacked; Charges Brought Against Suspects

Two employees of the New York City Housing Authority have been arrested and charged in relation to an attack on former New York Governor David Paterson and his stepson, Anthony Sliwa, on the Upper East Side. The incident occurred last Friday evening, with law enforcement confirming the arrests on Monday.

The two accused, identified as Travor Nurse, 40, and Diamond Minter, 34, allegedly incited two boys, aged 12 and 13, to participate in the assault. Both boys are also facing charges associated with the attack. According to the New York City Police Department (NYPD), there is an ongoing search for another juvenile potentially connected to the case.

According to a statement by Paterson’s spokesman, Sean Darcy, “Governor Paterson and his family are happy that these two adults were caught.” Darcy further added that the attack was a “traumatic experience” for both Paterson and his stepson, and they are relieved to have moved swiftly past the ordeal.

The reported altercation began around 8:30 p.m. outside 1871 2nd Avenue. Police officials detailed that Paterson and Sliwa were attacked following a verbal confrontation in which a group allegedly struck them. Darcy noted that the interaction began when Sliwa, son of Curtis Sliwa, a former Republican mayoral candidate, had an encounter with several individuals who had previously had words with him earlier that evening.

After receiving treatment for injuries at Weill Cornell Medical Center, both victims were discharged in stable condition the following day. In the aftermath of the attack, Paterson, who is legally blind, publicly commended his stepson’s courage during the incident.

In court proceedings, both accused presented their defense, claiming that they were, in fact, attempting to mediate during an ongoing clash. Assistant District Attorney Zachary Campbell contended, however, that instead of diffusing the situation, Nurse and Minter escalated it, resulting in more violence. Prosecutors allege that while Paterson and Sliwa were assaulted, Minter held Sliwa back, enabling the boys to attack him.

Nurse’s attorney, Jeff Chabrowe, asserted his client’s innocence, claiming that Nurse suffered more severe injuries than anyone involved and accusing Sliwa of being the primary aggressor. Meanwhile, Minter’s legal representation highlighted her clean record and alleged that her involvement was an attempt to defend the children.

Both defendants have received court orders to remain distant from Paterson and Sliwa, with further developments anticipated as the District Attorney’s office prepares to present the case to a grand jury. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny elucidated the nature of the fray, describing it as chaotic and aggressive from the onset.