For Immediate Release

July 22, 2014

New York State Senator Rev. Ruben Diaz Introduces Anti-Chokehold Legislation

New York State Senator Reverend Ruben Diaz (D-Bronx) is introducing a Senate Bill to make the use of chokehold illegal in New York State. This bill "establishes the crime of strangulation in the first degree, disregard of banned employment procedures."

Senator Rev. Diaz stated: "Every time I see the video of Eric Garner, or think about Anthony Baez, it breaks my heart. As a State Senator and as a Minister I am obligated to do whatever I can to prevent another person from being a victim of chokehold. I pray that this amendment to the New York State Penal Law will in fact, protect people from this vicious crime."

Although the New York City Police Department has banned the use of chokehold, they have received over 1,000 complaints from 2009 - 2013.

For further information, please contact Senator Rev. Diaz at (718) 991-3161.