NEW YORK — Sources say an alleged MS-13 member is in federal custody after a message sent to police officers warned of a “credible threat” of someone that “may attempt to shoot” an NYPD officer.
The message advised recipients to be vigilant and on alert, according to a police union that shared a screenshot of the email on Twitter.
Multiple police sources confirmed to PIX11 that the message is legitimate and was sent to officers. An NYPD spokesperson told PIX11 they were “aware of the tweet.”
The message was apparently sent to desk officers, insisting the message be passed along to all members of service (MOS), or officers assigned to the relevant command.
Federal law enforcement sources told PIX11’s Anthony DiLorenzo Friday that alleged MS-13 gang member Armando Clemente-Ramos was in ICE custody after making threats to cops.
In a statement Friday, a Homeland Security spokesperson confirmed an arrest had been made:
“Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) was made aware of a threat to the law enforcement community here in New York City. As a result, HSI, with its law enforcement partners, investigated the threat and subsequently made an arrest.”
WARNING – MUST READ
NYPD COPS ASSASSINATION THREAT- the attached notice has been distributed throughout NYPD Commands. REMAIN ALERT – respond with back up on all 9/11 calls. pic.twitter.com/1EyaXMB0Ep— SBA (@SBANYPD) February 13, 2020
“Investigative units have received a credible threat of an individual that may attempt to shoot a NYPD MOS, in particular, a 41 PCT MOS. All MOS are being advised to be vigilant and alert. Stationhouse security must be posted on all tours. Please advise all MOS and continue to read this message at roll calls until further notice,” the message read.
The NYPD’s 41st Precinct includes Hunts Point and Longwood in the Bronx.
On Sunday morning, Robert Williams, 45, allegedly entered the 41st Precinct station house and opened fire, shooting Lieutenant Jose Gautreaux, who is expected to make a full recovery.
Just about 12 hours earlier, Williams allegedly shot NYPD Officer Paul Stroffolino in the neck and chin as he sat in a police van in the Bronx Saturday night in the 42nd Precinct, directly adjacent to the 41st Precinct. Stroffolino was released from the hospital Sunday.
It was not immediately clear when the message was sent to officers.
The Sergeants Benevolent Association, which tweeted the screenshot of the message, referred to the contents of the message as an “assassination threat,” and told officers to respond with backup on all 911 calls.
