Man pleads guilty to setting fire to multiple NYPD vehicles last year
Jakhi McCray appeared before a judge and entered a guilty plea to a felony arson charge connected to a June 2025 incident.
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A 22-year-old man accused of setting multiple police vehicles on fire last summer pleaded guilty in court on Wednesday.
Jakhi McCray appeared before a judge and entered a guilty plea to a felony arson charge connected to a June 2025 incident. Following the hearing, McCray walked out of the courthouse under conditions agreed upon with prosecutors.
McCray admitted to intentionally setting fire to 11 police vehicles and one trailer, acknowledging in court that he understood the possible consequences of his actions at the time.
Friends and fellow protesters surrounded the New Jersey native as he left the courthouse. He will remain free until his pre-sentencing date.
Prosecutors said McCray’s estimated sentence is expected to be around five years in prison, citing his prior arrest history. However, the maximum sentence for an arson conviction carries a penalty of up to 20 years.
The incident occurred just two days before several No King protests took place around the city. Prosecutors told the court that the timing limited police response capabilities.
McCray, who is described as a known protester, appeared to be in good spirits as he exited the courthouse.
In part of a statement from the Support Committee for Jakhi McCray, a spokesperson wrote, “Jakhi is widely known in New York City as a dedicated organizer, activist and community member, whose work has touched countless lives. Supporters and fellow organizers have stood by him throughout this process, and his legal team is committed to fighting for the most just outcome possible at sentencing.”
An exact date for his sentencing has not yet been confirmed, but he is expected to return to court for final sentencing in the near future.
