Charges against Bronx Southeast Asians Dismissed

Over the course of this year, there has been increasing police harassment of Southeast Asian residents in Devoe Park, a public space on University Avenue and Fordham Road in the Bronx. Between July and August, over 20 Southeast Asian residents were targeted and were arrested or given meritless summons on allegations that they were loitering or gambling in the park. For some residents who were arrested, they were held for several nights without access to translation, phone calls or food. For others, their money was confiscated and not returned when they were released.

CAAAV responded to this serious situation quickly and partnered with the Bronx Defenders to provide advocacy to all the community members who were wrongfully targeted. As a way to increase awareness of police harassment and violence and to mobilize community support for those who were arrested, we reached out to local community leaders and institutions. The support of community leaders, groups and allies has been tremendous.

With a quick response and strong advocacy, in late August, all the criminal cases were dismissed. With the individual cases over, we will continue to work on increasing community awareness of police violence and their rights by conducting Know Your Rights training for community members.