Here’s what happened.
A growing controversy erupted this week after a veteran NFL journalist criticized New York City leadership following an incident in which police officers were struck with snowballs while responding to a disturbance call.
Videos shared widely on social media show officers from the New York City Police Department walking through Washington Square Park during a powerful winter storm when members of a crowd began throwing packed snow and ice at them.
According to police sources, officers were responding to reports of a large, disorderly group in the park during what city officials described as a historic blizzard. Several officers reportedly suffered facial lacerations and minor injuries while performing their duties.
Mayor’s Response Draws Criticism
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani acknowledged the incident on social media, noting that police officers and other city workers had been working long hours in difficult conditions to keep residents safe and traffic moving.
He urged the public to treat officers with respect, but also made a remark suggesting that if anyone were to be hit with a snowball, it should be him — a comment that quickly drew backlash from critics who believed the tone minimized the seriousness of the situation.
Veteran NFL Reporter Speaks Out
Longtime NFL journalist Ed Werder responded forcefully, expressing concern about what he viewed as a lack of clear condemnation.
Werder wrote that it was difficult to understand how officers could feel supported under leadership that appeared to treat the incident lightly. He later clarified that his position was not political but based on respect for law enforcement, emphasizing that disrespect toward police officers is wrong regardless of geography or political affiliation.
His remarks resonated with many Americans who believe that public officials must send a strong message when first responders are injured in the line of duty.
Police Union Calls Incident “Reckless and Unlawful”
The Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA), which represents NYPD sergeants, issued a sharply worded statement condemning the attack.
SBA President Vincent Vallelong rejected the idea that the snowball throwing could be dismissed as harmless fun or college mischief. He stated that intentionally targeting uniformed officers responding to a 911 call constitutes assault, regardless of whether the object thrown is snow or something more dangerous.
Vallelong emphasized that officers placed in harm’s way while protecting the public deserve unwavering support from city leadership and community members alike.
As of this writing, no arrests have been announced.
A Larger Debate About Respect for Law Enforcement
For many Americans — particularly older voters who prioritize public safety and law and order — the incident highlights broader concerns about respect for authority in major cities.
Police officers routinely work long shifts under difficult conditions, especially during extreme weather events. When injuries occur in the line of duty, critics argue that strong and immediate condemnation from leadership is critical.
The debate surrounding this incident may fade with the snow, but the underlying issue remains: how should city leaders respond when officers are injured while protecting their communities?
For millions of Americans, the answer is clear — support the men and women who serve, and send a message that attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated.
