A terrifying incident unfolded in Albany on Tuesday night when John Sarcone, the US Attorney for the Northern District of New York, was allegedly threatened by a knife-wielding illegal immigrant with a lengthy criminal record. The suspect, Saul Morales-Garcia, a 40-year-old illegal migrant from El Salvador who had previously been deported, aggressively advanced towards Sarcone outside the Hilton Hotel in Albany, gesturing that he would slit the attorney’s throat.
Thankfully, Sarcone managed to escape unharmed as nearby Albany County sheriff’s deputies apprehended Morales-Garcia shortly after the incident. It was revealed that the suspect had a felony conviction in El Salvador and had been deported from the United States at least once before. Prosecutors described the encounter as a “random” street incident, highlighting Morales-Garcia’s illegal status and criminal record in multiple states.
Morales-Garcia now faces charges of attempted second-degree murder and is being held without bail. The Albany County District Attorney emphasized the seriousness of the situation, regardless of the victim’s identity, stating that all such incidents are taken seriously. Sarcone, a Trump-appointed US Attorney, was appointed to his position in March and hails from a humble background in New York.
The incident prompted Republican New York Rep. Elise Stefanik to criticize Governor Kathy Hochul for her handling of illegal immigration issues, alleging that Hochul’s policies prioritize illegal immigrants over the safety of New Yorkers. Stefanik called for a governor who would prioritize the interests of New Yorkers and restore law and order in the state.
The Northern District of New York and the Department of Homeland Security have not provided any comments on the incident. This disturbing event serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by illegal immigration and the potential risks associated with individuals with criminal backgrounds. It underscores the importance of maintaining law and order to ensure the safety of all residents.