New York City—A violent assault on an off-duty police officer has ignited discussions about the safety of law enforcement personnel and the policies guiding their use of force. Chowdhury Nafees, a 27-year-old officer with the New York City Police Department, was brutally attacked in the Bronx early Saturday morning. His brother described how the assault intensified after the attackers realized he was an officer.
The incident unfolded around 4 a.m. when Nafees, who was in uniform while returning home from work, was confronted by two men, Wayne Lucas and Taveon Hargrove, both 23. The men allegedly knocked Nafees to the ground, where they stomped on his face, resulting in severe injuries. Witnesses say the assailants held a knife to his throat before stealing his wallet, smartphone, and service weapon.
Nafees was in critical condition when he arrived at a local hospital, prompting alarm and concern among his family. His brother Navid and their mother rushed to the hospital, only to find Nafees unconscious and severely injured. “The sight was unbearable,” Navid recounted. “He suffered massive trauma; seeing him like that was devastating.”
Significant damage was inflicted on Nafees’s face, including fractures to his left orbital and right cheekbones. The officer requires reconstructive surgery, further complicating his recovery journey. “His condition has improved, but he faces a long road ahead,” Navid said, expressing gratitude towards the medical staff and supporters.
Retired NYPD Detective Robert Garland, involved in fundraising efforts for Nafees, condemned the attack as an attempted murder, calling for strict justice against the suspects. He highlighted concerns about police officers feeling inadequate protection under current use-of-force policies, which may discourage them from taking necessary action in threatening situations.
“The reality is, this officer was potentially fearful of taking fatal action in a life-threatening moment,” Garland said. He emphasized that law enforcement should feel empowered to act decisively without fear of repercussions. “The job needs to change at a fundamental level to restore trust and camaraderie within the ranks,” he added.
The implications of this incident extend beyond Nafees, potentially discouraging future recruits from joining the police force. “People think twice before entering this profession due to fears of losing their jobs and facing public scrutiny,” Garland noted. The sense of duty and brotherhood among officers is critical to rebuilding morale, he said.
Despite being an educated engineer, Nafees chose a career in policing, motivated by a passion for serving his community. “He believes the need for officers on the streets far outweighs that for engineers,” Navid stated. “He’s driven by honor and a commitment to make a difference.”
Since the attack, a fundraising initiative has garnered over $20,000 to support Nafees’s recovery. As he continues to heal, his family remains hopeful, focusing on the future and the contributions he can still make. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers facing law enforcement professionals and the urgent need for dialogue around their protection and support.