Senator Boyle Proposes Machete Ban For Minors

Following the death of two Brentwood girls who were beaten and murdered by members of the MS-13 gang with machetes and baseball bats, local Senator Phil Boyle proposed a new law to ban the sale of machetes to minors on Thursday.

The new legislation, which was introduced at a joint press conference along with Police Commissioner Tim Sini, comes months after the murders of 15-year-old Nisa Mickens and 16-year-old Kayla Cuevas.

According to Boyle, the legislation would prevent minors from purchasing machetes in order to assist police in their efforts to reduce gang-related and other violent crimes.

Under the new law, machetes would be added to the list of weapons (utility knives, box cutters, and box cart cutters) already banned for sale and distribution to anyone under 18 years of age.

Any person or store who violates this measure would be subject to a civil penalty.

“Many of us cannot fathom the idea of someone being attacked and murdered with a machete," Boyle said. "Unfortunately, our law enforcement officials and prosecutors are seeing these heinous, gang-related crimes being committed more frequently here on Long Island."

Currently, in New York if someone is in possession of a machete – with intent to use unlawfully – they would be charged with fourth degree criminal possession of a weapon.

“We are all too familiar with the heinous ways violent criminals can use machetes, box cutters, and other potential weapons that are easily purchased," Sini said. "Senator Boyle’s proposed bill is a positive step towards providing another tool for the Police Department to ensure public safety.”

Members of Nassau County Police Department’s Gang Squads; Village of Hempstead Police Department’s Juvenile Aid Bureau and Gang Units; and the Nassau County Family Court Bureau Deputy Attorney Julia D’Agostino all attended the press conference to support this important legislative measure.

“Machetes have become the weapon of choice for the most dangerous gangs in New York and particularly on Long Island," D’Agostino said. "This legislation will go a long way in curbing the sale of these dangerous knives to minors and make our streets safer.”