In a disturbing display of violence against law enforcement, Sahara Dula, a 24-year-old from Brooklyn, was arrested for vehicular assault on a New York Police Department (NYPD) officer. The incident, which took place on Wednesday in Manhattan, has sparked outrage and concern over the rising tide of aggression toward police officers and the corporate media’s handling of such events.
The attack occurred at the intersection of Park Ave. and East 72nd St. during a police operation following a theft at the Mackage store on Madison Avenue. Dula, driving a black Lexus the wrong way, rammed into the officer as he approached her vehicle. The officer sustained a broken leg and arm injuries. This violent act, captured on video and shared on social media, shows Dula’s blatant disregard for law enforcement authority.
NEW: New York City driver intentionally plows her car into an NYPD officer, telling authorities she wanted to teach him a "lesson."
This is what happens when you convince people that cops are the enemy. Terrible.
Sahara Dula, who is a criminal justice graduate, was driving theā¦ pic.twitter.com/AYU1Cr2DSS
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) January 19, 2024
Dula’s history includes connections to two Marxist groups, namely Black Lives Matter (BLM) and pro-Palestine activism, casting a shadow on her motives. Her prior arrest in March 2022 for criminal mischief and destruction of property adds to her troubled profile. This incident raises questions about the growing trend of hostility toward police officers, often stemming from radical political ideologies.
The media’s coverage of this incident, particularly by mainstream corporate outlets, has been criticized for its apparent reluctance to name Dula or question her intentions.
The case is being overseen by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, known for his lenient stance on criminal prosecution. This has caused concern among law enforcement communities and conservative media, who fear that justice may not be adequately served. The Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry expressed frustration at the charges, questioning why Dula wasn’t charged with attempted murder given her admission of deliberately hitting the officer.
Dula’s arraignment brought more details to light. She admitted to smoking marijuana before the incident and was found with marijuana and rolling papers in her vehicle. Despite these revelations and her previous criminal record, her bail was set at $25,000, a figure deemed too lenient by many, considering the gravity of the offense.
In court, Dula’s lawyer highlighted her efforts to mentor youth and her struggle with bipolar disorder. While these factors might offer context, they do not excuse the violent actions against a law enforcement officer.