22-year-old Bronx resident Marco Pina is taking legal action against the Guardian Angels and their prominent leader, Curtis Sliwa, following an assault in Times Square. The incident, which unfolded during a live Fox News broadcast last month, saw Pina, described by Sliwa as a “migrant” and “shoplifter,” being forcibly detained by the vigilante group—a claim later found to be unsubstantiated by police.
Born in Mexico and brought to the United States at the age of two, Pina views New York City as his true home. Despite being a DACA recipient, a policy designed to protect immigrants who arrived as minors, Pina’s ordeal has thrust him into a challenging situation, battling fears over his immigration status and the reputational damage sustained in the highly publicized confrontation. His decision to file a lawsuit and lodge a criminal complaint underscores a significant moment of defiance against what he perceives as unjust treatment by a well-known figure and his organization.
The Guardian Angels, a group that prides itself on diversity and inclusivity, according to Sliwa, have faced a justified backlash over their actions, which were broadcasted to millions. The legal implications for both Pina and the Angels are substantial, touching on issues of vigilante justice, immigrant rights, and the power dynamics at play within the city’s diverse communities. Pina’s case, supported by attorney Patricia Lynch and Hispanics Across America spokesman Fernando Mateo, is not just about seeking justice for a singular incident but highlights the broader challenges facing immigrants in New York City amidst rising tensions and a strained public discourse on migration.
