Knife-Wielding Suspect in Postal Worker Stabbing Has Violent History
Jaia Cruz, the suspect accused of fatally stabbing a postal service worker in a New York City deli, has a history of violent crime involving knives. Cruz, described by authorities as transgender, was charged with second-degree murder in the Thursday stabbing of on-duty letter carrier Ray Hodges inside a Harlem deli.
Hodges, 36, was taken to Harlem Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) confirmed Hodges as the victim.
The New York Post reported that Cruz has five previous arrests for crimes involving knives. In July 2020, Cruz waved an open box cutter at another person in Midtown Manhattan and shouted, "I’m going to cut him," police sources told the newspaper. Cruz was ordered to get on the ground but refused and was arrested for resisting arrest.
Two weeks later, Cruz was arrested again for an alleged role in a robbery, using knives to take a man's wallet and phone after the victim invited the pair to hang out.
The USPIS released a statement saying, "We take matters involving the safety and well-being of postal service employees as a top priority. We are working diligently with the New York City Police Department on this investigation.
7 Comments
Answer
Don't let this tragedy divide us. We need to stand together in support of each other.
Jordan
This suspect needs to be thrown away the key. They are a danger to society.
The Truth
We need to do something about knife crime. Too many innocent people are being hurt.
Jordan
I'm praying for the victim's family and friends. This is a tragedy that no one deserves.
Eugene Alta
This is so sad. The victim was just trying to make a living. My thoughts are with their family and friends.
Raphael
Mental illness is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. We need more resources to help people with mental health problems.
Donatello
This is just another example of how the world is getting worse. There's no hope left.