United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III was involved in a dangerous incident on Tuesday, June 17, after leaving his office in downtown Albany. Saul Morales-Garcia, identified as an illegal immigrant from El Salvador who had previously been deported, attacked Sarcone with a knife while yelling in a language Sarcone could not understand.
Sarcone managed to escape to the lobby of the Hilton Hotel, prompting Morales-Garcia to stop and walk away. Concerned for public safety, Sarcone contacted Albany County Sheriff Craig D. Apple Sr. and attempted to keep Morales-Garcia within sight until law enforcement arrived.
Before authorities reached the scene, Morales-Garcia charged at Sarcone again with the knife but was apprehended by deputies when he stopped once more at the hotel lobby. The weapon was recovered during his arrest.
Sarcone emerged physically unharmed but emotionally affected by the event. He expressed his sense of duty as a federal law enforcement officer: “I felt an obligation to the public as the chief Federal law enforcement officer in the district that includes the city of Albany. I feared for my life but I couldn’t let this individual harm and potentially kill others.”
Sheriff Craig Apple commended Sarcone’s actions: “U.S. Attorney John Sarcone’s selfless actions likely saved lives.”
Morales-Garcia faces several charges including attempted second-degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon. He appeared in Albany City Court where an order of protection was issued for Sarcone. The FBI and Homeland Security Investigations are participating in the ongoing investigation, which may lead to additional federal charges.
Appointed U.S. Attorney for New York’s Northern District by Attorney General Pamela Bondi in March, Sarcone emphasized public safety as a top priority: “Public safety is our highest priority,” he stated, appreciating the quick response from local law enforcement.
To avoid any conflict of interest, Sarcone requested that his office be recused from prosecuting Morales-Garcia’s case regarding illegal re-entry into the country; it has been assigned to another U.S. Attorney’s office.
Sarcone also highlighted his efforts over recent months working with local law enforcement across 27 counties within his district to combat gang activity and other criminal threats: “The citizens of Albany, and visitors who come to Albany, should be able to feel safe walking down our streets.”
