Manhattan DA Drops Assault Charge Against Suspect in Washington Square Park Snowball Attack on NYPD

195K views | 2026-02-27

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The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office declined to pursue an assault charge against Gusmane Coulibaly, 27, who was accused of throwing packed snowballs at NYPD officers during a chaotic melee in Washington Square Park.

Coulibaly had initially been charged with assault on a police officer, obstruction of governmental administration, and disorderly conduct. However, during his arraignment, prosecutors downgraded the charges to harassment and obstruction, citing difficulty proving the officer’s injury was directly caused by the defendant.

New York City Police Department union president Patrick Hendry criticized the decision, calling the incident “an attack on the uniform.” One officer, identified as PO Johnson, reportedly suffered facial injuries and is currently on sick leave.

Defense attorney George Vomvolakis argued the incident was exaggerated and characterized it as a minor offense. Judge Michelle Weber stated that the defendant’s actions showed “a complete lack of judgment.”

Coulibaly was granted supervised release and is scheduled to return to court on April 9. He also faces a separate court date related to another alleged incident.

Watch the full breakdown of the case, legal arguments, and public reaction.