Ritchie Torres Criticizes Kathy Hochul Over NYC’s Troubling Drug Market

Congressman Ritchie Torres is calling out Governor Kathy Hochul for her inaction on the open-air drug market in the Bronx, known as “The Hub.”

Ritchie Torres Criticizes Kathy Hochul Over NYC’s Troubling Drug Market
Ritchie Torres Criticizes Kathy Hochul Over NYC’s Troubling Drug Market

New York City: Congressman Ritchie Torres is really laying into Governor Kathy Hochul. He’s upset about her lack of action on a serious open-air drug market in the South Bronx.

This area, called “The Hub,” has turned into a mess, with drug use happening right out in the open. Despite promises from city officials to clean it up, nothing seems to change.

Torres, who might run for governor, sent a strong letter to Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams. He’s pushing for changes to New York’s bail laws and wants the state to give the city more power to help those struggling with severe mental illness and addiction.

He pointed out that the governor wouldn’t allow such a situation outside her own home. Torres is frustrated that the current approach feels like a game of whack-a-mole, where the police clear out the drug market only for it to pop back up again almost immediately.

He’s also concerned about families having to witness drug use in broad daylight, especially around children. Torres believes everyone deserves the same level of safety and quality of life.

Despite efforts from City Hall and the NYPD, the situation hasn’t improved. Former Mayor Bill de Blasio put $8 million into fighting the opioid crisis, and Adams has tried to tackle the issue too, but the problems persist.

Even after recent clean-up efforts, the area remains a hotspot for drug activity. Torres argues that what’s needed is a long-term solution, not just temporary fixes.

He’s worried that criminals feel emboldened, knowing they won’t face real consequences. Hochul’s team responded, saying they’re not taking safety advice from someone who previously supported cutting the NYPD’s budget.

Hochul has promised to make it easier to commit and treat mentally ill individuals, but critics say her plans lack detail. Adams has also made mental health a priority, proposing new facilities to help those in need.

It’s clear that the situation in The Hub is complex, and both Torres and Hochul have a lot to address moving forward.

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