“Sharon Godwin allegedly plowed her stolen vehicle onto a crowded sidewalk and injured multiple pedestrians and children. Vehicular violence is a serious threat to the everyday safety of Manhattanites who are trying to walk, bike or drive as they go about their daily lives,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Everyone has a right to safe streets that are free from reckless and dangerous driving.”
“The alleged actions in this case are horrific and illustrate a deliberate attempt to prey on a young woman who was already vulnerable to exploitation,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Our youth who are at risk of trafficking deserve support and care, and we will continue to vigorously investigate and disrupt these types of abhorrent trafficking schemes. I encourage anyone who has experienced, or is aware of this type of criminal activity, to call our help line at 212.335.3400 – our experienced and trauma-informed prosecutors and investigators are here to help.”
“Combatting gun violence in our communities remains my top priority as District Attorney, and that mission becomes all the more important as we head into the summer months,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Prosecutions alone cannot solve our youth gun crisis: we need to engage young, at-risk New Yorkers, meet them where they are, and give them positive ways to spend their time, earn money, and connect with their neighbors. We were inspired to see so many young people engaged in positive programming last summer and look forward to building on that work. Please spread the word and encourage your local community-based organizations to apply!”
We often hear about violent crimes in New York and the people affected by them. But long after the crimes leave the headlines, the family and friends of the victims are left to work through their pain and grief.
“I applaud the Downstate Coalition for Crime Victims for continuing to uplift and support survivors and victims of crime through its advocacy,” said Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. “As Manhattan District Attorney, it is my profound obligation to help victims and survivors heal and recover their sense of safety, and to make our community safer so that others don’t suffer the same trauma. The stories we heard from the brave survivors today serve as a painful reminder that there are far too many who have had their lives forever changed by violent crime. My office will continue to expand and enhance the services and resources available to victims and their families so they can rebuild their lives.”
