NYC Council Member Arrested Protesting Eviction

A protest against an eviction in Bedford-Stuyvesant took a shocking turn when New York City Council Member Chi Ossé was violently arrested by NYPD officers. Ossé, a vocal advocate against ‘deed theft’ and for renters’ rights, was present to support a constituent facing eviction from her home.

Protest Turns Into Arrest

Video footage captured the moment officers tackled Ossé to the ground before arresting him. The council member, who is also the son of the late hip-hop journalist Combat Jack, was among several protesters attempting to block city marshals from entering the property. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, with City Council Speaker Julie Menin calling the arrest “concerning” and describing Ossé as having been “aggressively pushed.”

The NYPD stated that Ossé was charged with obstructing governmental administration, a misdemeanor, and two counts of disorderly conduct. He was later released from jail on Wednesday afternoon. The protest centered on the case of Carmella Charrington, the homeowner facing eviction.

The Issue of Deed Theft

Deed theft is a predatory practice where scammers illegally transfer property ownership, often by defrauding homeowners, particularly targeting older residents with significant home equity. While state officials indicated this specific dispute might not be a clear case of deed theft, the practice remains a major concern in New York City, especially in gentrifying neighborhoods with large Black populations.

Ossé has been a staunch advocate for stronger protections against deed theft and has consistently championed renters’ rights. Following his arrest, he released a statement calling for an immediate moratorium on evictions linked to deed theft, emphasizing, “Not another Black homeowner should have their home stolen.”

Support and Follow-Up

Mayor Zohran Mamdani addressed the incident, stating that while he hadn’t seen the video, the description was “incredibly concerning.” He affirmed that the city would follow up on both the nature of the arrest and the underlying issue being protested, acknowledging Ossé’s ongoing efforts to combat deed theft in his district.