In response to the anticipated arrival of four migrant men charged with felonies for their involvement in an attack on two New York Police Department (NYPD) officers, interim Calexico Police Chief Armando Orozco has announced that "appropriate measures" will be taken to address the situation and ensure the safety and security of the community.

The four men, who had been released from custody, were traveling by bus to Calexico, California, when the interim police chief issued a statement on Friday about their travel plans. Chief Orozco expressed deep sadness over the incident that led to the injury of NYPD officers and extended thoughts and prayers for their swift and complete recovery, emphasizing that violence against law enforcement is against the principles of justice and threatens community safety.

Acknowledging the concerns raised by the community, Chief Orozco emphasized that the Calexico Police Department's top priority is the safety of their residents and visitors. He also assured that his department is actively cooperating with relevant authorities to gather more information about the New York City incident and determine the appropriate course of action.

The four men were among at least seven individuals arrested in connection with the attack on the NYPD officers. They were released from custody without bail and provided with bus tickets by a faith-based charity. The altercation occurred when officers attempted to disperse a disorderly group near a migrant shelter in Times Square. Multiple unidentified individuals kicked and punched the officers before fleeing the scene.

The incident comes amidst a surge in migrants and asylum-seekers arriving at the US-Mexico border, with many making their way to major cities across the country. New York City alone is reportedly caring for approximately 67,000 migrants, out of the over 173,900 who have arrived since spring 2022.

As for the four men who were released without bail, they are expected to appear back in court in February and March. Should they fail to attend those court dates, arrest warrants are likely to be issued. While prosecutors could have requested bail due to the seriousness of the charges and the defendants lacking ties to the community as they were living in temporary migrant shelters, they did not do so. The decision was made to ensure a stronger case by conclusively identifying each defendant and specifying their participation in the incident.

Law enforcement agencies are closely monitoring the situation, pledging to take appropriate measures to maintain safety and security in Calexico, California, as they deal with the arrival of these individuals charged in the attack on NYPD officers.