Brooklyn Man Charged in NYPD Arson, Faces 20 Years

Jakhi Lodgson-McCray, a 21-year-old pro-Palestinian activist, surrendered to federal authorities after being charged with setting fire to 11 NYPD vehicles and a police trailer in Brooklyn on June 12, causing over $800,000 in damages. Authorities used surveillance footage and forensic evidence to identify him during a month-long investigation. Prosecutors allege the arson was timed to disrupt NYPD resources ahead of planned protests. McCray faces federal arson charges that carry a possible 20-year prison sentence. Anti-Israel activist groups, including those at Columbia University, have rallied in his support, calling the charges a scare tactic. Officials emphasize that these acts constitute serious federal crimes and are not protected protest.