Mayor Eric Adams criticized Public Advocate Jumaane Williams for suggesting the state convene a review process to examine the fatal shooting of a 61-year-old mentally ill man in Queens. Adams, running for re-election as an independent, stated that such proposals reflect the disconnect between Democrats and working-class New Yorkers.
Adams expressed his disapproval of Williams’ plan to address the city’s mental health crisis, stating that it overlooks the suffering of individuals on the streets and in the subways. He emphasized that bureaucratic panels are not the solution to the urgent mental health issues faced by the city.
Williams had written letters to state and city officials highlighting the option for the state to convene “mental health incident review panels” following such incidents. However, Adams argued that the focus should be on providing immediate care to those in need rather than bureaucratic reviews.
As Adams advocates for expanding the city’s powers to assist mentally ill individuals, he underscores the importance of reforming mental health laws to prioritize action, care, and compassion. He called for a shift in the culture surrounding mental health treatment to ensure that individuals receive the help they require.
The NYPD defended the officers involved in the shooting, stating that they acted in self-defense against the knife-wielding man. Representatives for Williams did not respond to requests for comment.
