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New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently struggled to recall significant details regarding high-profile cases involving illegal immigrants charged with violent crimes. This occurred during a congressional hearing held by the House Oversight Committee.
Representative Elise Stefanik, a Republican from New York, brought attention to Hochul’s decision to extend an executive order that continues the sanctuary state policies initiated by her predecessor, Andrew Cuomo. This extension, issued three times, was last confirmed on January 16, 2025.
The order mandates that state officers and employees refrain from sharing information with federal immigration authorities for federal civil immigration enforcement purposes. Furthermore, it also prohibits law enforcement from using state resources to apprehend individuals suspected of violating civil immigration laws. Hochul’s policies seem designed to protect undocumented immigrants, making it more difficult for federal authorities to carry out enforcement actions.
During the hearing, Stefanik pressed Hochul on specific cases of violent crimes involving illegal immigrants, but the governor appeared unprepared and struggled to provide answers.
High-Profile Cases Highlighted
One of the most alarming cases involves Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, an illegal immigrant from Guatemala charged with setting a homeless woman on fire on a New York City subway in December 2024. The victim, Debrina Kawam, was reportedly 57 years old and was attacked while she slept.
Stefanik posed a direct question to Hochul, asking, “Do you know who Sebastian Zapeta-Calil is?” Despite being a significant case in the state, Hochul’s response was lackluster. She replied, “I’m sure you’ll tell me. There’s many cases…”
In a subsequent exchange, Stefanik highlighted the brutality of the crime. “He found a sleeping woman on the subway, lit her on fire and burned her alive,” she remarked. Hochul admitted to not remembering the specifics, raising concerns among lawmakers regarding her awareness of public safety issues.
Additional Cases Missed
Hochul also failed to acknowledge the case of Sakir Akkan, a 21-year-old illegal immigrant from Turkey who was charged with forcibly abducting and raping a 15-year-old girl in Albany in May 2024. This incident has sparked considerable controversy, notably because local authorities provided conflicting statements about Akkan’s immigration status in relation to their public notification policies.
Stefanik consistently pressed Hochul for clarity. “Do you know who Sakir Akkan is? You should as the governor of New York state. Do you know?” But Hochul deflected, asking for a refresh of her memory. The conversation highlighted her lack of familiarity with critical developments occurring in her administration.
Stefanik then detailed Akkan’s actions, expressing disbelief that Hochul did not have the information at her fingertips. “He found a 15-year-old girl, threatened her with a metal pole, and violently raped her in Albany, New York,” she said.
Consequences of Sanctuary Policies
Hochul’s management of these issues reflects a broader debate about the implications of sanctuary policies on public safety. Critics argue that these policies offer protections for individuals who may commit serious crimes, thereby undermining community safety.
During the hearing, Stefanik also referenced the case of Raymond Rojas Basilio, a previously deported Mexican national accused of molesting a minor. This incident occurred despite sanctuary policies intended to shield illegal immigrants from deportation. “He is an illegal who molested an 11-year-old in our state because, again, of your sanctuary state policies,” Stefanik emphasized.
Hochul responded to the criticisms by stating that she collaborates with federal authorities on criminal prosecutions, although Stefanik challenged this assertion. The congresswoman argued that Hochul was not adequately representing the victims of these crimes.
Growing Frustration Among Lawmakers
As the hearing unfolded, Stefanik’s frustration became apparent. She expressed concern that Hochul had failed to act decisively in the interest of public safety. “You are shielding illegals,” Stefanik asserted. “This is Kathy Hochul’s New York. It’s one of the many reasons why you’re hemorrhaging support from hard-working New York families.”
Hochul acknowledged the seriousness of the crimes mentioned but attempted to redirect the conversation toward a broader discussion of state policies. In her defense, she claimed that her executive order focuses on ensuring that local law enforcement does not overreach in civil immigration cases.
Seeking Accountability
The contentious exchange encapsulates ongoing tensions between state policy and community safety. As New Yorkers grapple with rising crime rates, the debate over sanctuary policies remains at the forefront.
Hochul asserted that the state cooperates with federal law enforcement but faced scrutiny from Stefanik and other lawmakers. The congresswoman contended that the governor was failing to advocate effectively for the victims affected by violent crimes committed by illegal immigrants.
As the hearing concluded, the polarization surrounding immigration policies and public safety highlighted an urgent need for dialogue among state leaders. With public trust at stake, New Yorkers are left wondering how their state will address the pressing issues of crime and immigration in the future.
Moving Forward
The implications of Hochul’s sanctuary policies and their impact on crime will likely continue to be debated. Lawmakers and constituents alike must engage in conversations about best practices for ensuring public safety, while also respecting the rights of individuals regardless of their immigration status. This delicate balance remains a crucial aspect of governance in New York.
