A shadow falls over New York City’s incoming administration. The appointment of Mysonne Linen, a man with a violent past, to a key advisory role is raising serious questions about the direction of public safety in the city.
Linen, a 49-year-old rapper and activist, served seven years in prison for the armed robbery of two taxi drivers. His past, once hidden, is now thrust into the spotlight as he joins Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s criminal-justice transition team.
The first attack occurred in June 1997, when Linen and others brutally assaulted cab driver Joseph Exiri, shattering a beer bottle over his head during the robbery. Less than a year later, in March 1998, Linen allegedly held another driver, Francisco Monsanto, at gunpoint, stealing cash and a ring.
Both victims courageously identified Linen as their attacker in court. Despite facing up to 25 years in prison, Linen’s defense attempted to portray him as a rising artist, claiming his work with Lil’ Kim and Mase provided no motive for such crimes.
The announcement of Linen’s appointment wasn’t made through official channels, but rather revealed in an Instagram post by Until Freedom, a radical social-justice organization where Linen now holds a leadership position. The post celebrated the inclusion of Until Freedom leaders in shaping the city’s public safety and criminal justice policies.
Following his release, Linen rebranded himself as a community activist. He dedicated years to “violence interruption” efforts and founded Rising Kings, a non-profit offering classes to inmates at Rikers Island. He also co-founded Until Freedom with Linda Sarsour, a controversial anti-Israel activist who also advises Mamdani.
The decision has sparked outrage from those dedicated to upholding the law. Critics argue that entrusting criminal justice policy to a convicted felon is a dangerous precedent, undermining the sacrifices of those who risk their lives to enforce the law.
Benny Boscio, president of the Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association, expressed deep concern, stating the appointment is “disheartening and deeply disturbing.” He emphasized that the voices of those who protect the city have been excluded from this crucial process.
This appointment signals a potentially dramatic shift in approach to criminal justice, one that leaves many wondering about the future of safety and accountability in New York City.
