Dispute Arises Over ICE Shooting Involving Illegal Immigrant

A dispute has emerged following an incident where an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer shot a man during a targeted arrest operation. The individual, Oscar Belgal, a 28-year-old from the Dominican Republic, was shot after reportedly refusing to comply with orders. Authorities disclosed Belgal’s extensive criminal history, stirring controversy.

New York Democratic congressional candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier expressed her views on the incident during a discussion with Twitch streamer Hasan Piker. She stated that Belgal’s criminal record did not justify the shooting. This perspective contrasts with the Department of Homeland Security’s position, which highlighted his prior convictions, including grand larceny and his affiliations with the Trinitarios street gang.

“I was just so angry as I was listening to it,” Chevalier said. “It doesn’t even matter.”

The incident occurred when Belgal allegedly moved his vehicle forward, prompting officers to fire seven shots, striking him. New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch detailed Belgal’s record, citing two prior arrests for robbery and drug offenses.

Chevalier criticized Tisch for what she perceived as an attempt to demonize Belgal rather than condemn the shooting. Piker echoed her view, suggesting that even if Belgal had committed violent crimes, the shooting was unwarranted.

The New York State Republican Committee responded to Chevalier’s comments, criticizing them as emblematic of the Democratic Party’s shift in values. NY GOP communications director David Laska emphasized the alleged lawful use of force by ICE officers.

An NYPD spokesperson mentioned that sharing criminal history during incident updates is standard, addressing the media’s frequent inquiries about such details.