In a disturbing turn of events, a New York Police Department (NYPD) officer was deliberately struck by a vehicle on the Upper East Side of Manhattan on January 17, 2024. The driver, identified as 24-year-old Sahara Dula from Brooklyn, now faces multiple charges, including attempted assault and reckless driving.
Incident Details
The shocking incident took place around 4:30 p.m. while officers were investigating a robbery at a high-end clothing store on Madison Avenue. The suspects in the robbery had abandoned a getaway vehicle nearby, prompting an extensive police presence in the area. During this operation, Dula, driving a black Lexus, was seen traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of Park Avenue for approximately ten blocks. Her erratic driving behavior raised concerns among officers on the scene.
As Dula approached East 71st Street, an NYPD officer directed her to stop and correct her route. However, rather than complying with the instructions, she accelerated, hitting the officer. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the officer roll onto the hood of the car before falling to the ground. He suffered a fractured leg along with multiple bruises but is expected to make a full recovery. Dula was taken into custody at the scene.
Driver’s Statement and Legal Charges
Following her arrest, Dula made incriminating statements to law enforcement. According to court documents, she admitted to intentionally striking the officer. Reports indicate she told authorities, “I told the cop I wanted to go straight, and he wouldn’t move, so I hit him. I did it on purpose.” Additionally, she allegedly expressed disdain toward the police, stating, “F—k these cops! He wouldn’t move!”
Dula is now facing several serious charges, including:
- First-degree attempted assault
- Attempted aggravated assault upon a police officer
- Second-degree assault
- Operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs
- Reckless driving
Prosecutors revealed during her arraignment that she was under the influence of marijuana at the time of the incident. The court set her bail at $25,000.
Community and Law Enforcement Reactions
The incident has sparked outrage among both law enforcement officials and the general public. Many are questioning the severity of the charges, with some advocating for an attempted murder charge given the deliberate nature of the attack.
Patrick Hendry, President of the Police Benevolent Association, voiced his concerns: “We don’t understand why she isn’t being charged with attempted murder. She tried to run down and kill a New York City police officer.”
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg emphasized the severity of the case, stating, “This defendant not only allegedly endangered the lives of countless people traveling on Park Avenue but she deliberately sought to harm an NYPD officer.”
Who is Sahara Dula?
Dula, a Brooklyn resident, holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and communication studies from New England College in New Hampshire. Her past legal troubles include a 2022 criminal mischief charge in Brooklyn, which was later dropped. Additionally, she has had previous run-ins with the law in New Hampshire, including a 2020 arrest for failing to stop at an intersection and a simple assault charge at Concord Hospital.
The Legal Process and Next Steps
As the case against Dula moves forward, legal experts suggest that she could face significant prison time if convicted of the most serious charges. The case has reignited discussions about the safety of law enforcement officers and the appropriate legal consequences for those who assault them.
Meanwhile, the injured NYPD officer is recovering and receiving medical care. The department, along with the broader New York City community, continues to monitor the legal proceedings closely, advocating for justice and emphasizing the need to protect officers in the line of duty.
Conclusion
This incident highlights the dangers police officers face daily and raises crucial questions about how such offenses should be prosecuted. As the legal system addresses Dula’s actions, the case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting law enforcement and following traffic laws to ensure public safety in New York City.
