MANHATTAN, New York – A civilian bravely helped catch an armed suspect who was fleeing from police in New York City on Thursday, March 1. The suspect, Jason Fleming, was arrested on March 16 after brandishing loaded weapons following a dispute in a crowded bodega in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood. Surveillance video shows Fleming, 39, outside the bodega pulling back his coat momentarily to reveal a rifle that had been swung over his shoulder.
Police officers then approached the suspect after a witness called 911, and Fleming took off running down the sidewalk. However, a citizen stopped Fleming before pushing him into a nearby fence and handing him over to the police. Additional footage posted by the district on Twitter shows the citizen’s heroic efforts.
According to police, Fleming was not permitted to possess firearms because of his two prior felony convictions for unlawful firearms possession. He is currently charged with possession of firearms after a felony conviction, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said, “Thanks to our law enforcement partners and the heroic efforts of a Good Samaritan, the defendant was apprehended before he could hurt anyone, and his weapons are now off the streets.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Ivan J. Arvelo said, “HSI special agents are committed to public safety and do not hesitate to act when members of the community are threatened. I am proud of our agents’ hard work and efforts with the rapid apprehension of this criminal and the follow-on investigative support provided to the New York City Police Department. HSI remains steadfast in our commitment to our law enforcement partners in the cause of community safety.”
This incident emphasizes the importance of community involvement in ensuring public safety. Thanks to the brave citizen who stepped forward and risked their own safety to apprehend a dangerous suspect, the streets of New York City are a little safer today.