The situation escalated further when Hernandez physically resisted the officers’ attempts to remove her from the scene. According to the Yonkers Police Department, “Hernandez also attempted to pull Officers away from Kent in the process.” As a result of the struggle, one officer sustained injuries to his right knee and wrist, forcing him to be placed off-duty. The bodycam footage captures the moment Hernandez is taken to the ground by police and placed under arrest.
In the aftermath of the incident, Arnal Kent, who was released with an appearance ticket, shared his perspective on the events leading up to his arrest. Kent, who arrived in the United States from Venezuela in the fall, alleged that he and other migrants at the Ramada Inn had been subjected to mistreatment by hotel staff. His claims shed light on the potential underlying tensions that may have contributed to the chaotic scene.
Other migrants staying at the shelter corroborated Kent’s allegations, providing accounts of staff entering their rooms without warning and removing personal items. One migrant told ABC7, “My iron, my hair dryer, things for work have disappeared,” while others claimed that money and jewelry had been stolen. These reports suggest a broader pattern of concerns regarding the treatment of migrants at the shelter.
The Ramada Inn in Yonkers has been serving as a migrant shelter since May 2023, with the NYC Department of Homeless Services relocating approximately 250 migrants and children to the location. The incident has brought attention to the challenges faced by migrant shelters and the need for adequate support and resources to ensure the safety and well-being of those housed within them.
