Leandra Feliz, the mother of 15-year-old Lesandro “Junior” Guzman-Feliz, who was killed in a brutal gang attack in the Bronx in 2018, spoke out in support of former Governor Andrew Cuomo for mayor, citing his qualifications to address the rampant crime in New York City. In an emotional statement, she expressed her desire to prevent other parents from experiencing the heartbreak of losing a child to violence. Her heartfelt plea highlights the urgent need for effective leadership to tackle the city’s crime issues.
The tragic death of Junior, who was attacked by two dozen members of the “Trinitarios” gang in a case of mistaken identity, remains a haunting memory for Feliz. She and Cuomo held a news conference in the Bronx to reflect on the anguish of her son’s death seven years later, emphasizing the still prevalent sense of danger and insecurity in the city. This context underscores her motivation for endorsing Cuomo, who is viewed as a stronger candidate to bring about necessary changes in public safety.
At the forefront of the primary race, Cuomo positions himself as a law-and-order candidate, contrasting his approach with that of socialist Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, who advocates for police defunding. Cuomo has pledged to increase police presence by hiring an additional 5,000 officers, framing his experience as critical in fighting crime. During the news conference, he illustrated his stance by showcasing Mamdani’s previous social media posts that called for defunding the police, emphasizing the stark differences in their approaches to law enforcement.
Feliz’s home serves as a poignant tribute to her son, adorned with images and mementos that keep his memory alive. Her deep sense of loss is visible in the framed keepsakes of Junior’s NYPD Explorer jacket and personalized shirt. This environment reflects her commitment to ensuring that her son’s story contributes to a larger conversation about safety and justice in the community. Her sentiments resonate with many other parents who share similar fears and experiences.
Through her advocacy, Feliz articulates the collective anxiety felt by residents in New York City. Her assertion that “nobody feels safe” encapsulates the broader fears of violence and crime that permeate communities. She calls for urgent reforms to restore order and security, arguing that the fight against crime should extend beyond personal grief to encompass a communal responsibility. This perspective highlights the need for collaborative efforts in addressing the root causes of violence.
In a broader context, Feliz’s endorsements reflect an urgent societal need for capable leadership to address crime. While political candidates may differ in their approaches, the underlying desire for safety and the prevention of further loss resonates across the city. Her passionate support for Cuomo underscores the critical challenges facing urban communities and the imperative for effective solutions to ensure that no more families endure the anguish of losing loved ones to violence.
