Brooklyn Man Pleads Guilty To Arson After Setting 10 NYPD Vehicles On Fire

BROOKLYN, NY — A Brooklyn man pleaded guilty Wednesday to setting fire to 10 NYPD vehicles in a Bushwick parking lot last year.

Jakhi McCray, 22, turned himself in to federal authorities after the June 12, 2025, blaze on DeKalb Avenue between Wilson and Central Avenues.

Law enforcement said McCray climbed a fence surrounding the lot around 1 a.m. and used fire starters to ignite the cop cars and a trailer, causing $800,000 in damage.

The federal arson charge carries a mandatory five-year minimum prison sentence and up to 20 years.

McCray remains out on $300,000 bond. Sentencing has not been scheduled.

McCray was previously arrested during protests and charged with resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

While law enforcement said he acted alone in the June 12 blaze, it occurred days before the June 14 “No Kings” protests in New York City, raising concerns about security at the demonstrations.

About 20 supporters filled half the courtroom during McCray’s plea. Some wore T-shirts reading “Free Jahki!” and “Love Fights Back."

McCray wore a gray T-shirt stating “Vive La Commune” and a black medical mask.

Joseph Nocella Jr., U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, said in a statement:

“By deliberately setting fire to multiple police vehicles in the pre-dawn hours, the defendant put at risk the lives of first responders and residents asleep in their beds nearby, and ultimately, strained resources meant to protect the community.”

The Support Committee for Jakhi McCray, a collective advocating for his defense, said the incident reflects his activism.

“Jakhi is supported by a broad base of community organizations in New York City and across the United States,” the group said. “Jakhi’s bravery and commitment to defending his community is an inspiration to us all, and we will keep fighting until he is free.”

Samuel Jacobson of the Federal Defenders of New York and defense attorney Ron Kuby represent McCray. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Urquiola appeared on behalf of the government.