NYC judge faces calls to resign after he set free parolee who later shot cop: ‘Stunning lack of judgment’

Mayor Eric Adams Urged to Demand Resignation of Queens Judge

A city lawmaker, Councilman Robert Holden, has called for the resignation of Queens Criminal Court Judge Edward Daniels. Daniels had released ex-convict Gary Worthy without bail, despite objections from prosecutors and a parole officer. This decision ultimately led to Worthy injuring an NYPD cop in a shootout.

Worthy, a 57-year-old career criminal, allegedly attempted to rob two businesses in Jamaica before the violent incident. Councilman Holden criticized Judge Daniels for his lack of judgment in releasing Worthy and emphasized the need for swift action from Mayor Adams to remove the judge from his position.

Mayor Adams had appointed Judge Daniels to the bench in April, praising him as “the best and brightest.” However, the recent events have raised concerns about public safety and the integrity of judicial decisions.

Worthy, who had a lengthy criminal record and was on lifetime parole, was released without bail by Judge Daniels despite recommendations for detention. Subsequently, Worthy was involved in another arrest for drug and resisting arrest charges.

State judges in New York are limited in setting bail due to criminal justice reforms, but the severity of Worthy’s charges and his parole status should have warranted bail. Judge Daniels, a former public defender in Queens, is under scrutiny for his controversial decision in this case.

The mayor’s office has not yet responded to calls for action regarding Judge Daniels’ resignation. The need for accountability and ensuring public safety in judicial decisions remains a priority in light of this incident.