Adams calls for urgent mental health reforms after fatal stabbing spree

Mayor Eric Adams spotlighted New York City’s critical mental health challenges following Monday’s fatal stabbing spree that left three people dead.

“This is the failure of our unwillingness to face the problem, address the problem, and don’t be so idealistic that we’re not realistic. People need care,” Adams said.

The suspect, 51-year-old Ramon Rivera, described as homeless, has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder. Rivera, with a history of eight prior arrests, including assault and burglary, is emblematic of the intersecting failures of the mental health and criminal justice systems, Adams said.

“This is a wake-up call for our criminal justice system and our psychiatric system. We have three New Yorkers who were murdered in our city by a person who was betrayed by the healthcare system, and that should trouble us all,” Adams remarked.

Adams defended his controversial policy of involuntary removals, initiated in November 2022, stating it has moved 6,800 New Yorkers from the subway system into permanent housing. He argued that the policy has prevented similar incidents.

“Too many people were afraid to step up and say people who are dealing with severe mental health illness need to get the care they deserve even if it means involuntary removals,” he said.

Adams also called for systemic reforms, including long-term psychiatric beds and legislative action from Albany. He urged the state to pass a “supportive intervention act” to provide clarity on hospitalization standards.

Gov. Kathy Hochul echoed the urgency for change, expressing her commitment to prioritize mental health.

“I want people to know that I will go back to the legislature, back with every tool in my kit, to find ways to address this because this is unacceptable,” Hochul said.

The tragedy has reignited debate over the balance between public safety and compassionate care for the city’s most vulnerable residents.