By Thomas Montana
Assemblyman Daniel Norber (R,C-Great Neck) and his Assembly Minority colleagues stood on the Million Dollar Staircase in Albany on June 10 urging the U.S. House Oversight Committee to hold Governor Kathy Hochul accountable for New York’s sanctuary policies.
This is in response to the recent request by the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Oversight and Government Reform for Hochul to provide accountability on how her policies affect public safety and impede federal immigration enforcement.
“These reckless policies have fueled an unchecked migrant crisis, straining our communities and threatening public safety,” Norber said. “From the $4.3 billion in taxpayer funds diverted to support illegal immigrants to unvetted no-bid contracts, this administration has prioritized political agendas over New Yorkers’ needs.”
Norber cited the case of Sakir Akkan, “a violent offender released under flawed bail reforms,” and is “one of too many examples of the urgent need for change. Our municipalities deserve better.”
Last month, Akkan, a 21-year-old illegal alien from Turkey, pleaded guilty to raping a 15-year-old in Albany. The rape took place in the back of his car, according to reports, while he was armed with a pipe. It was also reported that Albany police covered up the crime because of Akkan’s immigration status.
“I urge the House Oversight Committee to press the governor on these critical issues during her testimony. Long Islanders are demanding fiscal responsibility, transparency and policies that protect our citizens first.”
Norber signed a letter drafted by his Conference colleagues to House Oversight Chairman James Comer (R-Kentucky) outlining questions the committee must ask to ensure a full understanding of the unchecked consequences of the migrant crisis enabled by Hochul’s sanctuary policies which can be read here.
Long Island Life & Politics reached out to Hochul’s office for comment and is still waiting to hear back.