Machete-Wielding Jihadist Sentenced for Times Square Attack
A Maine man, Trevor Bickford, was sentenced to 27 years in prison on Thursday for his role in a terrorist attack near New York City’s Times Square on New Year’s Eve 2022.
The Attack
On December 21, 2022, Bickford, then 20 years old, armed with an 13-inch machete, attacked three police officers guarding the single entrance to Times Square. He screamed “Allahu Akbar” and struck the officers on the head multiple times, injuring one with a fractured skull. Officer Michael Hanna shot Bickford in the shoulder, ending the threat.
Sentencing
At the sentencing hearing, Judge P. Kevin Castel heard emotional statements from the officers who were attacked. Bickford apologized for his actions, acknowledging the physical and mental scars he left on his victims and witnesses.
While acknowledging Bickford’s mental illness and age, the judge noted the severity of the attack and the need for significant punishment. He rejected the prosecution’s request for a 50-year sentence and the defense’s suggestion of 10 years, citing Bickford’s cooperation and his mother’s repeated attempts to seek help before the incident.
Medical History
Bickford’s family provided the court with evidence of his struggles with mental illness. He was diagnosed with schizoaffective bipolar disorder and depression, experiencing delusions of grandeur and hallucinations. Bickford’s mother had多次与警方和医院联系, seeking assistance as she witnessed his deteriorating condition.
Days before the attack, Bickford reportedly disclosed plans to harm others to mental health professionals, indicating that he intended to carry out a jihadist attack.
Consequences for Victims
The officers who were attacked described the ongoing impact of Bickford’s actions. One officer, who suffered from a scalp wound, experiences chronic headaches and anxiety, leading him to consider retirement from his law enforcement career.
Another officer, a recent graduate of the police academy, recalled the night of the attack as a traumatic experience but expressed his appreciation for the outpouring of support he received.
Post-Release Monitoring
Judge Castel ordered that upon Bickford’s release from prison, he will face lifelong monitoring of his internet usage and other aspects of his daily life to prevent any future acts of violence.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Trevor Bickford is a reminder of the devastating consequences of both terrorism and mental illness. While Bickford’s punishment reflects the gravity of his actions, it also acknowledges his mental state and the importance of addressing mental health issues to prevent future tragedies.
