The Cell Phone Ban in New York State Schools

 

The Cell Phone Ban in New York State Schools: A Deep Dive into Its History, Implications, and Alternatives

In recent years, the debate over cell phone use in schools has intensified, with New York State taking a bold step by implementing a statewide ban on smartphones in K-12 schools. This "bell-to-bell" restriction, set to take effect in the 2025-26 school year, has sparked widespread discussion among educators, parents, students, and policymakers. 

The policy aims to create distraction-free learning environments, address mental health concerns tied to social media, and improve academic outcomes. However, it also raises questions about safety, equity, and the best way to prepare students for responsible technology use in the modern world. 

This blog post explores the history of cell phone bans in New York, how students use phones in schools, the dangers of social media on mental health, parental concerns about communication and safety, and why a blanket ban may not be the most effective approach. Instead, I argue that teaching students to manage their phone use responsibly—mirroring workplace expectations—better equips them for life beyond the classroom.

 The History of Cell Phone Bans in New York State

The journey toward New York’s current cell phone ban began decades ago, shaped by evolving technology, societal concerns, and educational priorities. In the early 2000s, as cell phones became more prevalent, many schools, including those in New York City, implemented strict bans. By 2010, over 90% of U.S. schools prohibited cell phone use during school hours, according to federal data. New York City, under Mayor Michael Bloomberg, enforced a particularly stringent policy, requiring students to leave phones at home or store them off-campus, often at a cost. This approach disproportionately affected low-income students, who faced stricter enforcement compared to their peers at wealthier schools, raising equity concerns. In 2015, Mayor Bill de Blasio lifted the city’s ban, citing these disparities and the need for parents to stay in touch with their children.

The pendulum swung back in recent years as concerns about social media’s impact on youth mental health and academic performance grew. In 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul embarked on a statewide listening tour, engaging with teachers, parents, and students to gather insights on smartphone use in schools. Her report, More Learning, Less Scrolling: Creating Distraction-Free Schools, highlighted smartphones as significant distractions that inhibit learning and creativity while exacerbating mental health issues. Following this, Hochul announced a landmark policy in April 2025, making New York the largest state to implement a "bell-to-bell" smartphone ban in all public schools, charter schools, and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES). The policy, part of the FY 2026 State Budget, allocates $13.5 million for storage solutions like magnetic pouches and requires schools to develop their own implementation plans while ensuring parents have a way to contact students during emergencies.

This resurgence aligns with a national trend. States like Florida, Louisiana, and Virginia have also adopted cell phone restrictions, driven by bipartisan support and advisories from the U.S. Surgeon General and UNESCO, which recommend limiting phone use in schools to address youth mental health and improve learning environments. However, New York’s previous experience with bans suggests that implementation challenges, equity concerns, and resistance from parents and students must be carefully navigated.

 How Children Use Cell Phones in Schools

Cell phones are ubiquitous among students, with a 2022 Pew Research Center study finding that 95% of teens have access to a smartphone, and 46% report being online almost constantly. In schools, this translates to widespread use during class, lunch, and breaks. A 2023 Common Sense Media study revealed that 97% of 11- to 17-year-olds with phones use them during the school day, with a median usage time of 43 minutes. Students receive an average of 237 notifications daily, a quarter of which arrive during school hours, pulling their attention away from lessons.

In classrooms, students often use phones for non-educational purposes, such as texting, scrolling social media, or watching videos. Teachers report that these activities disrupt instruction, with 72% of high school educators citing cell phones as a major distraction, according to a 2024 Pew Research study. For example, students may film TikTok videos in hallways or browse Instagram during lessons, behaviors that not only hinder their own focus but also disrupt peers and teachers. Some schools have observed students using phones to cheat or engage in cyberbullying, further complicating the classroom environment. However, phones are not solely used for distraction. Students also rely on them for educational tasks like research, translation, or managing schedules, and for personal needs, such as coordinating afterschool plans or checking in with parents.

 The Dangers of Social Media and Mental Health

The link between social media and youth mental health has been a driving force behind cell phone bans. Research consistently shows that excessive smartphone use, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, is associated with negative mental health outcomes. A 2024 report from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health found that phone bans in middle schools reduced mental health challenges among girls and decreased bullying by over 40%. Longitudinal studies indicate that teens spending more than three hours daily on social media are twice as likely to experience anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem due to constant peer comparisons and exposure to curated online lives.

Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, in his book The Anxious Generation, argues that smartphones and social media are fueling a teenage mental health crisis. He cites studies showing that the constant presence of smartphones reduces cognitive capacity, especially for those addicted to their devices, and notifications disrupt focus and attention. The U.S. Surgeon General’s 2024 advisory echoed these concerns, calling for warning labels on social media platforms due to their role in exacerbating youth mental health issues. In schools, social media use contributes to cyberbullying, with 59% of teens reporting some form of online harassment, according to a 2018 Pew Research study. These virtual conflicts often spill into the classroom, creating additional challenges for educators.

Beyond mental health, excessive phone use is linked to academic declines. A 2023 study from the National Education Policy Center found that limiting classroom phone use improved academic performance by an average of 15%. The presence of phones, even when not in use, can reduce cognitive capacity, as students anticipate notifications or feel compelled to check their devices. This constant pull undermines their ability to engage deeply with learning material.

 Parental Concerns: Communication and School Safety

While the case for reducing distractions and protecting mental health is strong, many parents oppose blanket cell phone bans due to concerns about communication and safety, particularly in the context of school shootings. A 2024 National Parents Union poll found that 78% of parents whose children bring phones to school want them to have access during emergencies. In an era marked by tragic school shootings, parents view phones as a lifeline for immediate communication with their children. For example, during a crisis, students can text parents to confirm their safety or contact first responders, providing reassurance in chaotic situations.

However, experts argue that phone use during emergencies can be problematic. The New York State Police Superintendent has noted that student phone use during a crisis can distract from following safety protocols, draw attention to hiding spots, or overload cellular networks, hindering first responders’ communications. Despite these concerns, the fear of being unable to reach a child during a school shooting remains a powerful motivator for parents. Additionally, some students rely on phones for practical reasons, such as coordinating caregiving responsibilities for younger siblings or managing afterschool jobs, which a blanket ban could disrupt.

Equity is another concern. The 2015 lifting of New York City’s ban was partly due to disproportionate enforcement in low-income schools, where students faced stricter consequences than those in wealthier districts. Critics, including the New York Civil Liberties Union, worry that the new ban could lead to increased surveillance or disciplinary actions, particularly for marginalized students. Parents also argue that phones serve as essential tools for students with disabilities, such as those needing medical apps or translation services, and blanket bans must include clear exemptions to avoid harm.

 The Importance of Distraction-Free Learning

There is broad consensus that minimizing distractions in classrooms is critical for effective learning. UNESCO’s 2023 Global Education Monitoring Report found that having a phone nearby reduces students’ ability to focus, with one study noting it takes up to 20 minutes for a young brain to refocus after using a phone. Teachers report that unauthorized phone use negatively impacts 40% of public schools, affecting both student learning and staff morale. A 2023 study in Spain showed that schools with phone bans saw reduced cyberbullying and improved math and science test scores, particularly for girls.

Distraction-free environments foster deeper engagement with lessons, encourage creativity, and promote face-to-face social interactions. Governor Hochul’s report emphasized that phone-free schools support the mental health of both students and teachers by reducing the stress of constant digital interruptions. In New York City, educators like Vincent Corletta have described a “night and day” difference in classrooms with phone bans, noting that students are more attentive and engaged in learning.

 Why a Blanket Ban Isn’t the Answer

While the benefits of reducing distractions are clear, a blanket cell phone ban may not be the most effective way to achieve these goals. In the workforce, adults are not typically subject to outright phone bans, yet they are expected to exercise self-discipline and refrain from using devices during work hours. This conditioning begins with clear expectations and training, allowing employees to balance technology use with professional responsibilities. Similarly, schools should prepare students for this reality by teaching them how to manage their phone use responsibly rather than removing the devices entirely.

Banning phones outright bypasses an opportunity to instill critical life skills like self-regulation and digital literacy. In college and workplaces, individuals must navigate environments where technology is omnipresent but must be used appropriately. A 2024 report from the Harvard Graduate School of Education suggests that teaching students to manage their devices fosters the self-discipline needed for these settings. For example, schools could implement “phone-free zones” during classes or exams while allowing use during lunch or breaks, striking a balance between minimizing distractions and respecting students’ needs for communication.

Moreover, a blanket ban risks alienating students who rely on phones for legitimate purposes. Students with anxiety may use phones to check in with caregivers, while others use them for educational tools like calculators or translation apps. A one-size-fits-all approach could disproportionately harm these students, particularly those from underserved communities who may lack access to alternative devices. The 2023 Lancet study found no significant mental health improvements from phone bans, suggesting that addressing underlying issues like social anxiety or peer dynamics requires more comprehensive strategies.

 A Balanced Approach: Teaching Responsible Phone Use

Instead of a blanket ban, schools should adopt policies that teach students when and how to use phones appropriately. This mirrors the workplace, where employees are trusted to regulate their device use. For example, schools could establish clear guidelines, such as requiring phones to be silenced and stored in bags during class but allowing use during designated times. Programs like digital citizenship curricula can educate students on managing screen time, recognizing cyberbullying, and navigating social media responsibly. These skills are essential for preparing students for a world where technology is integral to daily life.

Some schools have successfully implemented such policies. The Pelham school board in New York adopted a no-phones-during-instruction policy in July 2024, requiring phones to be stored in calculator caddies during class but allowing use during free periods. This approach improved attentiveness while maintaining communication options for students. Other districts have experimented with “phone-friendly” environments, where devices are permitted for specific educational tasks under teacher supervision, fostering both engagement and responsibility.

Engaging parents and students in policy development is also key. By soliciting community input, schools can address concerns about safety and equity while building buy-in for new rules. For example, providing parents with direct contact numbers for emergencies can alleviate fears about school shootings, while clear exemptions for medical or caregiving needs ensure inclusivity. Consistency in enforcement, as noted by educators, is critical to success, particularly in the early weeks of implementation.

 Conclusion

New York State’s cell phone ban reflects a well-intentioned effort to address the real challenges of smartphone use in schools, from distractions to mental health concerns. The policy builds on a history of evolving regulations, driven by growing evidence of social media’s harms and the need for focused learning environments. However, a blanket ban overlooks the complexities of modern education, where phones serve as both distractions and tools. Parental concerns about safety and communication, particularly in the context of school shootings, cannot be dismissed, nor can the need to prepare students for a technology-driven world.

Rather than banning phones outright, schools should focus on conditioning students to use devices responsibly, much like adults do in the workplace. By setting clear expectations—class time for learning, gym time for physical activity, recreation time for socializing, and designated times for phone use—schools can foster self-discipline and digital literacy. These skills will serve students far beyond the classroom, equipping them to navigate a world where technology is unavoidable. As New York implements its ban, policymakers and educators must remain open to feedback, ensuring that policies balance the need for focus with the realities of modern life.

 Sources

- Hochul, K. (2025). More Learning, Less Scrolling: Creating Distraction-Free Schools. New York State Governor’s Office.[](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/distraction-free-schools-governor-hochul-announces-new-york-become-largest-state-nation)[](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-unveils-plan-restrict-smartphone-use-schools-statewide-and-ensure-distraction)[](https://www.governor.ny.gov/programs/eliminating-distractions-new-york-schools)

- KFF. (2024). A Look at State Efforts to Ban Cellphones in Schools and Implications for Youth Mental Health.[](https://www.kff.org/mental-health/issue-brief/a-look-at-state-efforts-to-ban-cellphones-in-schools-and-implications-for-youth-mental-health/)[](https://www.kff.org/mental-health/a-look-at-state-efforts-to-ban-cellphones-in-schools-and-implications-for-youth-mental-health/)

- Pew Research Center. (2018, 2022, 2024). Studies on teen smartphone use and cyberbullying.[](https://rockinst.org/blog/school-cell-phone-bans-restrictions/)[](https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/30/learning/what-students-are-saying-about-school-cellphone-bans.html)[](https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ideas/ed-magazine/24/11/no-signal)

- Common Sense Media. (2023). Report on teen phone use during school hours.[](https://rockinst.org/blog/school-cell-phone-bans-restrictions/)[](https://www.campussafetymagazine.com/insights/which-states-have-banned-cell-phones-in-schools/161286/)

- National Parents Union. (2024). Poll on parental support for cell phone access in schools.[](https://rockinst.org/blog/school-cell-phone-bans-restrictions/)[](https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ideas/ed-magazine/24/11/no-signal)

- UNESCO. (2023). Global Education Monitoring Report.[](https://www.bu.edu/articles/2023/why-schools-should-ban-cell-phones-in-the-classroom/)[](https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/31/technology/school-smartphone-bans.html)

- The Lancet. (2023). Study on school phone bans and mental health.[](https://pelhamexaminer.com/74600/showcase/new-yorks-school-cellphone-ban-a-threat-to-teen-mental-health-and-safety/)

- National Education Policy Center. (2023). Study on classroom phone use and academic performance.[](https://sites.google.com/schools.nyc.gov/cellphoneuseinschools/public-policy-development)

- Norwegian Institute of Public Health. (2024). Report on cellphone bans and mental health outcomes.[](https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ideas/ed-magazine/24/11/no-signal)

- Haidt, J. (2024). The Anxious Generation.[](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/do-school-phone-bans-help-students/)

SCOTUS to Cuomo: Leave Catholics & Jews Alone

 

After being bullying by dictator governor Andrew Cuomo, Catholics and Jews and breathe a sigh of relief.  The Supreme Court decided today in a 5-4 ruling that the governor/state cannot impose restrictions on religious communities.  

The decision comes after a battle regarding Church and State. While the Constitution explicitly states that the government cannot infringe on the rights of religion, many liberal governors took on powers they did not have in order to do just that. They imposed restriction on Churches and Synagogues during the first wave of Covid-19 Coronavirus threatening bishops and religious leaders with fines and other penalties if they did not comply with closures and other demands.

At first, bishops complied in a good faith spirit of maintaining the common good and protecting others; however, once it became obvious that the Church was targeted when stores like Target, liquor stores and protests were allowed gather, the bishops woke up and sued. They were joined by Jewish leaders who also were targeted by Cuomo and May Di Blasio.  

The justices opined, “Even in a pandemic, the Constitution cannot be put away and forgotten...The restrictions at issue here, by effectively barring many from attending religious services, strike at the very heart of the First Amendment’s guarantee of religious liberty.”

This has been my view since the alleged pandemic took hold here in New York City. The restrictions the government was placing on religious communities raised eyebows. It seemed as if the Constitution did not matter.  The government cannot tell religious institutions what to do and vice-verse. This is what the Constitution clearly states.  It was disturbing to see some Catholics on social media attack Catholics who held this Constitutional view. 

Despite science showing that the Mass has never been a conduit for the spread of disease, the government insisted churches and religious gathers were unsafe. The fact that liquor stores, Target and protesting rioters were allowed to gather without restriction made it clear that the state was simply bullying religious institutions.  To what ends, no one can know for sure. However, the agenda seems sinister.  

St. Pope Piux X gave us a clear warning decades ago about allowing the State to control the Mass and Sacraments. He wrote in the Encyclical Pascendi Dominici Gregis: 

We can never let the State tell us how to run the Church. This is a huge no-no under the United States Constitution. Virus or no virus, pandemic or no pandemic, this cannot be allowed.  Religious freedom is engraved into the Constitution.  The fact that liquors stores, Target and rioters were allowed to reign free while Churches were forced to shut down is an affront to the Constitution.  It is a disrespect to religion, our Founders and Science.  As stated before, there is not scientific evidence that the Catholic Mass or Holy Communion is a conduit for any disease.  While some priests, nuns and lay people have gotten covid-19, this was in activities outside of the liturgy and Catholic parish.  

What do you think? Post below on Disqus. Be sure to follow the rules for posting.  

Source:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/supreme-court-relieves-religious-organizations-from-some-covid-related-restrictions/ar-BB1bncwo?ocid=msedgntp

https://news.yahoo.com/supreme-court-rules-against-ny-052246804.html

https://www.foxnews.com/us/supreme-court-rules-against-cuomos-coronavirus-limits-with-barrett-playing-key-role

https://www.cnn.com/2020/11/26/politics/supreme-court-religious-restrictions-ruling-covid/index.html

Explosion in Chelsea - Manhattan

Breaking:  There was an explosion at 2rd street and 6th avenue in the Chelsea area of the borough of Manhattan in New York City. At around 8 PM, something exploded by a garbage dumpster near a building for the blind. Mayor Di Blasio has described the situation as not related to terrorism by stating only that it was "intentional." Earlier today, a pipe bomb went off at a military even in NewJersey.

Authorities are investigating thoroughly.  They have video from nearby businesses and apparently have a suspect.  The NYPD is asking for any video of information you may have.  Please contact them if you do!

We do think this was an intentional act. You can help your #NYPD. If you saw/heard something, please call 800-577-TIPS and/or 888-NYC-SAFE.

— Commissioner O'Neill (@NYPDONeill) September 18, 2016

Anyone with any information regarding the explosion in Chelsea, please contact 800-577-TIPS

— NYPDCounterterrorism (@NYPDCT) September 18, 2016

I will update this post as I learn more details, stay tuned!


UPDATE:

29 People have been injured, one seriously.  There was a pressure cooker with wires and what looks like a taped cell phone found on 27th street and 7th Avenue   The emergency service system sent texts to New Yorkers warning them to stay away from the area and their windows if they live in the area.

PHOTO: Pressure cooker found at 2nd location in Manhattan - @ShimonPro pic.twitter.com/vikiKFwTJB

— Conflict News (@Conflicts) September 18, 2016

UPDATE:
NYPD is investigating a suspicious package on 5th ave between 28th and 29th now.  The pressure cooker has been removed.  Police may have a suspect.


UPDATE: 9/19/16:
The FBI and NYPD have 5 men in custody at the Verrazano bridge in Brooklyn. The investigation is related to the explosions at Chelsea, but no one has been officially arrested or charged.  Suspects are just being questioned.


UPDATE II:  The NYPD & FBI are searching for Ahmad Khan Rahami.  If you see him, call 911 or 1 (800)- 557-TIPS.  Do not approach.  May be armed and dangerous!

If you see Ahmad Khan Rahami or know where he is, call 911 or 1800557TIPS #Elizabeth #Chelsea #catholic #apologetics pic.twitter.com/7SU066W0R2

— Sacerdotنs (@Sacerdotus) September 19, 2016

Just got emergency alert regarding Ahmad Khan Rahami on my cell. #chelsea #Elizabeth #catholic pic.twitter.com/DBOLePLURX

— Sacerdotنs (@Sacerdotus) September 19, 2016

#Breaking Help us locate Ahmad Rahami for questioning related to #Chelseaexplosion https://t.co/IvaT8sZs5n

— FBI New York (@NewYorkFBI) September 19, 2016

WANTED: Ahmad Khan Rahami, 28, in connection to the Chelsea explosion. Call #800577TIPS with any information. pic.twitter.com/rBDQGfXwbh

— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) September 19, 2016

Have info? @NewYorkFBI and NYPD are looking for Ahmad Khan Rahami. Call #800577TIPS w/info. https://t.co/jDbn5pj6kZ pic.twitter.com/B4klhABCom

— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) September 19, 2016

Source:

https://www.yahoo.com/news/possible-explosion-reported-nycs-chelsea-neighborhood-010526841.html

http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/manhattan/blast-rips-chelsea-street-started-running-article-1.2796382?utm_content=buffer215a4&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=NYDailyNewsTw

Detective Wenjian Liu's Funeral

NYPD Detective Wenjian Liu had his funeral today after 2 weeks. Tens of thousands of people showed up, mostly police officers from all throughout the United States and Canada.  Most of them were able to come thanks to Jet Blue who offered free flights to officers wishing to attending.  They did the same for Detective Ramos' funeral as well.

The funeral was simple and had a Buddhist ceremony.  The director of the FBI, Mayor Di Blasio, Commissioner Bratton as well as relatives of Liu spoke at the ceremony held at the funeral home.  They recalled the heroic and moral life of Liu who joined the NYPD after the September 11 attacks in New York City. An accountant by training, Liu felt compelled to join the Blue Force after watching the city that adopted him be attacked by deranged terrorists.

Di Blasio described how Detective Liu went beyond the call of duty by showing his concern and respect for the elderly even to the point of staying with one to give him company after a call came in regarding an elderly man.  Liu's widow and father also spoke and were visibly emotional. Unfortunately, some police officers tarnsihed the ceremony by turning their backs at Di Blasio as he spoke despite Commissioner Bratton calling on officers in a memo not to do so.  He said, “a hero’s funeral is about grieving, not grievance.”

May Detective Wenjian Liu rest in peace and may God bless his relatives and friends who are suffering his loss.














Source:

http://www.npr.org/2015/01/05/375064544/lius-funeral-blended-nypd-and-chinese-traditions

http://pix11.com/2015/01/04/hundreds-turn-backs-as-mayor-de-blasio-speaks-at-det-wenjian-lius-funeral/

http://nypost.com/2014/12/27/cops-turn-backs-on-de-blasio-as-he-takes-stage-at-funeral/

http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/12/hundreds-of-nypd-officers-turn-backs-on-de-blasio-during-funeral-address/

Rafael Ramos Laid to Rest

Talk about the funeral of all funerals in New York City.  Today, police officer Rafael Ramos who was assassinated last Saturday was laid to rest.  Over 35,000 police officers from all over the 50 states and even Canada as well as other civilians came to the funeral. The Evangelical worship edifice only sits 800 so the rest were lined up for blocks outside.  I am from New York and have never seen a funeral with so many people and so much display of military style salute.

In attendance were vice president Biden, governor Cuomo, mayor Di Blasio, former mayor Giuliani, the family of slain officer Liu and of course the Ramos family.  The family did not speak at the funeral service. Politicians and the "pastors" of the Christ Tabernacle sect spoke instead giving words of encouragement to the family. Commissioner Bratton announced that both police officers would be promoted to detective posthumously.  The now Detective Ramos was also officially named a chaplain as well.  He had been studying in the chaplaincy program for the NYPD and was set to graduate the day he was assassinated. The speakers at the funeral described Ramos as being a man of faith who thought of his job as part of God's work. The Ramos family were visibly in pain, especially the older son Justin who had a face of anguish. The younger son Jaden seemed to be holding in his emotion.

Unfortunately, the ceremony was tarnished by some foolish officers who turned their backs at the jumbo-trons as mayor Di Blasio spoke. This was in poor taste in my opinion. Now the media is focusing on this instead of the life of Detective Ramos. These officers should get suspended in my opinion. They should have waited until both officers were laid to rest in order to continue their childish behavior.

In any event, the ceremony was amazing.  I have never seen anything like it in regards to a police officer ceremony.  There was even a fly over with helicopters in formation. Over 400 officers on motorcycles lead the procession to the cemetery. With the exception of the back-turning cops, the ceremony was dignified and gave a respectful and solemn farewell to the Puerto Rican officer who was assasinated just for being NYPD.  Kudos to each speaker and the "pastors" who did an excellent job using their words to comfort us all.  Kudos to the organizers both at Christ Tabernacle and the NYPD.

Thank you Detective Rafael Ramos for your dedication and service. You will not be forgotten.  May God bless your soul and give you the rest you deserve. You have made Christ proud for as He said, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. (John 15:13)"

Some images from the funeral:

Source:

http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/Slain-NYPD-Officer-Rafael-Ramos-Funeral-Mayor-Bill-de-Blasio-Vice-President-Joe-Biden-286920041.html?_osource=SocialFlowTwt_NYBrand

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/12/26/nypd-rafael-ramos-chaplain_n_6382584.html?ncid=tweetlnkushpmg00000055

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/funeral-slain-nypd-officer-rafael-ramos-gallery-1.2057982?pmSlide=1.2057903

Officers Down! 10-13

Officers Ramos and Liu 

One of my fears just came true after hearing some protesters demanding cops be killed and having cops as friends.  Two police officers were killed in cold blood on Myrtle and Tompkins Aves in Brooklyn by a deranged man, Ismaaiyl Brinsley from Georgia who first shot his ex-girlfriend in Baltimore and then headed to New York City.  He posted on Instagram that he was going to "give wings to two pigs" using hashtags encouraging to shoot or kill cops.  He wrote:

“I’m Putting Wings On Pigs Today. They Take 1 Of Ours...Let’s Take 2 of Theirs, This May Be My Final Post...I’m Putting Pigs In A Blanket.
#ShootThePolice #RIPErivGarner #RIPMike Brown.”

Police officers Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu had no chance to draw their weapons.  They probably didn't even see Brinsley coming as they sat in their patrol car.  He aimed at their heads with a silver gun which he posted an image of along with the words above on Instagram.  Commissioner Bratton looked visibly emotional, eyes watery.  Mayor Diblasio as well looked emotional.

Police officer Liu was a newly wed and Police Ramos turned 40 on December 12 and has a 13 year old son who still did not process what happened to his beloved dad.  The whole thing is just heart breaking.  The attack was apparently done in retaliation for Michael Brown and Eric Garner based on the Instagram posts.  Brinsley ran to a crowded subway platform where he shot himself in the head.  

I will update this as I learn more.  It is a sad day.


UPDATE: 12/21/14
According to news reports, Brinsley had a troubled past being arrested numerous times and a record for gun possession.  He had broken into his ex girlfriend's apartment and shot her after attempting to commit suicide.  His ex girlfriend had tried to stop him, but he shot her instead of himself.  Then he called her mom and said he shot her accidentally.  It is believed that he used her cell phone to do so.  Next he would board a bus from Baltimore to New York City.  While in New York, he approached some gang members and asked their affiliation.  He then told them to add him to their Instagram accounts because he was going to do something big and then discarded the phone at the Barcalay's Center. After this, he walked by the patrol car where both officers Ramos and Liu were eating lunch. He came by the passenger side and shot them both in the head execution style.  They did not have any time to react at all.  After the assassination, a postal worker followed Brinsley in his truck and when he saw police officers, he notified them.  They then went after Brinsley who ran into a subway station where he shot himself in the head.

Some people reported that a group of hecklers were applauding at the death of the officers and shouted at police officers present, "good for you."  I have not confirmed this, but it is going around on the internet. A makeshift memorial was created near the scene and keeps growing with flowers, candles and other items.  Prayers were held Sunday evening for the officers and their relatives.  The cousin of Police Officer Ramos seemed to show pity for the coward who took his relative's life.  He said that "we forgive you" and that Brinsley was a troubled man.  This forgiveness is an awesome display of Christianity.  Police Officer Ramos' Facebook lists him as studying at an Evangelical Seminary.  Perhaps he may have been a minister as well in the Evangelical sect. (UPDATE 12/22/14: He was studying to be a chaplain) His Facebook ironically had as his last post a blue imagine which is used when police mourn for their fallen brothers.  This is dated December 18.  Other images on his profile had badges of fallen officers and Biblical or religious messages.

This news has touched everyone.  The New York Yankees are even offering to pay for the education of Ramos' kids.  However as usual, some one always has to take this tragedy and make it into a political game.  PBA president Lynch and conservative political pundits are accusing DiBlasio, Sharpton and protesters of being accomplices of this double cop murder.  



Some images I found:

Patrol car where PO Liu & Ramos were gunned down

Attacker Ismaaiyl Brinsley

Dead corpse of attacker

Dead corpse of the attacker Brinsley

https://www.facebook.com/jaden.ramos.98?fref=nf

Ramos' son Jaden Ramos posted his reaction on his instagram. He is only 13

Source:

http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/nyc-crime/cops-shot-brooklyn-sources-article-1.2051941?fkf&utm_content=buffer79e2a&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=NYDailyNewsTw

http://www.nydailynews.com/deaths-nypd-cops-shot-dead-triggers-wave-sadness-article-1.2052124?utm_content=buffer07213&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=NYDN+Facebook

http://www.nydailynews.com/nypd-cops-turn-backs-de-blasio-hospital-article-1.2052215?utm_content=buffer3d835&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=NYDN+Facebook

http://www.aol.com/article/2014/12/20/im-putting-wings-on-pigs-crazed-mans-online-ranting-before-killing-nypd-cops/21119392/?icid=maing-grid7%7Caol20-os%7Cdl1%7Csec1_lnk2%26pLid%3D586400

http://www.cnn.com/2014/12/20/us/new-york-police-officers-shot/index.html?hpt=hp_t1

http://heavy.com/news/2014/12/ismail-brinsley-nypd-brooklyn-bed-stuy-shooting-suspect/

http://heavy.com/news/2014/12/ismaaiyl-brinsley-pictures-photos-facebook-instagram-bed-stuy-nypd-shooting-bleau-barracuda/

http://insider.foxnews.com/2014/12/21/he-was-best-father-i-could-ask-jaden-ramos-son-slain-nypd-officer-rafael-ramos-eulogizes

http://www.fireandreamitchell.com/2014/12/20/jaden-ramos-son-nypd-rafael-ramos-says-bye-father-facebook/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+FireAndreaMitchell+%28Fire+Andrea+Mitchell%21+Exposing+Liberal+bias+cause+the+MSM+doesn%27t+have+to.%29

http://nyc.barstoolsports.com/random-thoughts/yankees-offer-to-pay-for-the-education-of-jaden-ramos/

NY Resident With Ebola

Ebola has reached New York City!  Dr. Craig Spencer who works for Doctors Without Borders was working in Guinea and returned to the United States just a few days ago. He seemed fine until he began feeling fatigue on Wednesday October 22. Despite this, he went on a three mile jog, traveled via an Uber taxi cab as well as the A and L lines on the subway. He also went out for a night of recreation at a Brooklyn bowling alley.

It wasn't until Thursday morning that he got a fever that reached 103 degrees and had bouts of diarrhea. He was immediately transferred to Bellevue Hospital, the hospital where I was born at.  Bellevue Hospital is the official place to treat possible cases of Ebola in the New York City area.

Both Mayor Diblasio and Governor Cuomo as well as medical professionals spoke via a press conference reassuring New Yorkers that things are under control and that Dr. Spencer will have a speedy recovery since he entered isolation at the onset of the virus infection.  Nevertheless, as a precaution, city officials are tracking down anyone who may have been in close contract with the patient.

Let us pray for Dr. Craig Spencer that he may recovery quickly and that Ebola will not spread elsewhere in the City.  He is receiving top notch care at Bellevue Hospital which is the hospital from which I was born and where my mother took me as a child to get my physicals, shots and what not.   He's in good hands!  Dr. Spencer volunteered his knowledge and skills to help others.  God will help him.







Source:

http://www.aol.com/article/2014/10/23/new-york-officials-doctor-has-ebola-1st-in-city/20983287/?icid=maing-grid7%7Cmaing9%7Cdl1%7Csec1_lnk2%26pLid%3D551280