In a chaotic scene at the Ramada Inn in Yonkers, New York, two illegal immigrants were arrested Tuesday after violence erupted at the motel, which has been housing some of New York City’s overflow of illegal immigrants. The incident has sparked a debate on migrant rights and the challenges faced by cities dealing with an influx of undocumented individuals.
Bodycam footage released by the Yonkers Police Department shows migrants resisting as officers responded to the disturbance. In a 911 call released by the police, an officer can be heard saying, “A guy’s over here unruly, he’s getting very violent with everybody. He’s throwing stuff at everybody. Send somebody here right away.”
Police entered the motel and handcuffed Arnal Kent, 35, but struggled to get him outside as he resisted. Yainilet Hernandez, 24, another illegal immigrant living at the Ramada Inn, aided Kent in his resistance. Police said Hernandez tried to strike officers after they arrested her for impeding Kent’s arrest.
During the incident, one officer sustained injuries to a knee and wrist. Kent, who told WNYW he was from Venezuela, was charged with menacing, disorderly conduct, and obstructing governmental administration. He was released without bail. Hernandez faces charges of second-degree assault, obstruction of governmental administration, and resisting arrest. She was being held at the Westchester County Jail on $500 bail.
