NYC Liquor Store Owner Faces Felony Charges for Shooting Would-Be Thief Amid Crime Surge

A New York City liquor store owner is facing felony charges after shooting a suspected shoplifter who allegedly attacked him outside his business. Amidst the city's ongoing crime wave, the incident has sparked a debate about self-defense and the prosecution of victims.

Amid the ongoing crime surge in New York City, a 53-year-old liquor store owner named Francisco Valerio has been charged with assault and other felonies after shooting a suspected shoplifter who allegedly attacked him outside his store. The incident occurred on Monday evening at Franja Wine and Liquors in Ridgewood, Queens.

Footage obtained by Fox News Digital shows one of the suspects, 20-year-old Kevin Pullatasi, attempting to stuff a liquor bottle into his jacket before being confronted by store employees. The situation escalated when Pullatasi charged back towards the store and allegedly kicked and punched the store worker.

According to the Queens District Attorney's Office, Valerio exited the store and attempted to pistol-whip Pullatasi, who then dropped to the ground after being shot. Pullatasi was treated in hospital for a gunshot wound, while Valerio has been charged with assault, reckless endangerment, and criminal possession of a weapon.

The incident has sparked outrage from the United Bodegas of America, which represents small businesses in New York City. Fernando Mateo, the organization's founder, denounced the prosecution of Valerio and called for a crackdown on repeat offenders.

"Frequent flier thieves must be stopped, we have the right to defend ourselves, our businesses, and our communities," Mateo said. "District attorneys must stop prosecuting victims and charging criminals when they commit crimes."

Mateo criticized New York's perceived soft-on-crime policies, including bail reform, which he believes emboldens criminals. He emphasized that Valerio is a law-abiding citizen and a victim of an assault.

"Francisco Valerio is a licensed gun owner, has been married for 30 years, has two children, and is a Columbia graduate," Mateo said. "He will lose everything he has worked for if prosecuted."

The Queens District Attorney's Office has defended its decision to prosecute Valerio, arguing that the shooting was reckless and occurred on a public street. However, neighbors near the store have expressed support for Valerio's actions.

"He had a permit to carry it and they were assaulting him, and it was an accident. He shouldn't be in trouble," one neighbor told Fox 5.

The incident highlights the growing concern over crime in New York City, where business owners and residents alike feel increasingly threatened. According to the latest NYPD statistics, felony assaults have increased by over 20% since last year.

The debate surrounding the prosecution of Valerio is likely to continue as the city grapples with the ongoing crime surge and the perceived effectiveness of its criminal justice policies.