National Guard Deployed in Response to Local Leaders' Request for Increased Security Amid Asylum Seeker Influx

Governor Kathy Hochul is deploying National Guard troops to Monroe and Erie Counties in New York at the request of local leaders, following recent alleged sexual assault incidents involving asylum seekers. The National Guard was initially sent to New York City to assist with logistical and operational support for asylum seekers. Monroe County Legislator Mercedes Vazquez-Simmons expressed shock and disappointment at the request, citing the high crime rates in Rochester. She also described her interactions with confused and mistreated asylum-seeking families. It remains unclear if more families will be sent to Monroe County, while Erie County has announced that it will no longer accept asylum seekers.