Off-Duty NYPD Detective Engages in Food Fight with Alleged Threatening Man

Footage reveals an off-duty NYPD detective involved in a physical altercation on a Midtown sidewalk after an incident at a Starbucks. The 39-year-old officer, dressed in civilian clothes, confronted a man accused of stealing food from inside the store without paying. When she showed her police badge, he was escorted outside but soon returned, throwing food and creating chaos within the cafe.

As the suspect resumed his disruptive behavior, he followed the officer onto the sidewalk. The video shows her preparing to engage as he approaches with clenched fists. The confrontation escalated into a fight, with the man punching her in the face, leaving her with a visible welt near her eye. She received on-the-spot medical treatment.

NYPD detective fighting with a man throwing food — The officer confronts the suspect on the sidewalk following the food fight inside the Starbucks. Obtained by the NY Post

Authorities arrested Mohamed Riad, 27, charging him with assault, criminal mischief, and petty larceny. He pleaded not guilty and is currently held on $1,000 bail. It remains unclear if he’s able to post bail later.

City police have seen a rise in violence against officers, with 970 assaults reported through May—an increase from 595 during the same period in 2019, before the pandemic. Experts and union representatives defend police actions, emphasizing their importance amid ongoing public safety concerns. The Police Union praised the officer’s bravery in defending herself and others, criticizing proposals that suggest social workers could replace police officers in handling such incidents.