On Thursday, November 21, 2024, Fox News reported that a New York City councilman is calling for the resignation of Queens Criminal Court Judge Edward Daniels following a violent incident involving a career criminal previously released by the judge. The demand comes after the individual, Gary Worthy, was involved in a shootout that left a police officer and a bystander injured.
Councilman Robert Holden criticized Judge Daniels for his decision to release Worthy, a 57-year-old man with a lengthy criminal record, without bail for assault and burglary charges. This decision was made in August, despite Worthy being on lifetime parole for firearms possession and having more than a dozen prior convictions, including murder, robbery, and narcotics offenses.
Holden has urged Mayor Eric Adams to take action against Judge Daniels, stating that the judge’s actions demonstrate a “stunning lack of judgment.” He referenced the mayor’s earlier praise of Daniels, who was appointed to the bench in April 2024 and described as one of the “best and brightest.” Holden emphasized that the safety of the public should be paramount and demanded accountability to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In the wake of the shootout, a spokesperson for Mayor Adams expressed outrage, stating that it was unacceptable for a repeat offender like Worthy to be at large and capable of committing violent acts. The spokesperson acknowledged the broader implications of the incident, labeling it a failure of the criminal justice system in New York City. While the mayor does not possess the authority to demand a judge’s resignation directly, the spokesperson expressed hope for improved collaboration within the criminal justice system.
The events unfolded after Worthy allegedly robbed several stores in Queens. When police officers responded to reports of armed robberies, they attempted to apprehend him. Worthy reportedly fled and opened fire on Officer Rich Wong, injuring him before being shot and killed by the police. Both Officer Wong and a 26-year-old woman, who sustained injuries during the incident, are expected to recover.
Prior to the shootout, Worthy had been arrested less than a week earlier on charges related to narcotics possession and resisting arrest but was released. He was also wanted for three other armed robberies that occurred earlier in the year.
Mayor Adams condemned the handling of Worthy’s prior charges, noting the alarming pattern of violent behavior and the failures of the system that allowed such an individual to remain free.
Source: Fox News
