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Bosnian National Dzenan Camovic Charged in Brutal NYPD Attack
BROOKLYN, NY – Dzenan Camovic, a Bosnian national illegally present in the United States, is facing federal charges for a vicious attack on multiple New York City Police Department officers on June 3, 2020, in Brooklyn. An indictment unsealed today details allegations of robbery and firearms offenses stemming from the incident, which authorities say was fueled by the defendant’s adherence to violent Islamist extremism. Camovic remains in state custody and awaits arraignment.
According to court filings, Camovic allegedly ambushed officers standing post amidst the civil unrest gripping the city, brutally slashing one officer with a knife before stealing his 9mm service pistol and opening fire. Several responding officers sustained injuries during the chaotic confrontation. The indictment charges Camovic with Hobbs Act robbery, using and discharging a firearm during the robbery, theft of a firearm that moved in interstate commerce, and unlawful possession of a firearm as an illegal alien.
Attorney General William P. Barr minced no words, stating, “Dzenan Camovic, an illegal alien and Bosnian national, is alleged to have used the cover of chaos…to launch a premeditated and cowardly attack from behind.” Barr highlighted that Camovic repeatedly shouted “Allahu Akbar” during the assault and possessed a “significant volume” of materials demonstrating support for ISIS. He also pointed to the challenges posed by encrypted communication platforms used by the defendant, hindering a full understanding of his plans and potential co-conspirators. “This is the second violent Islamist extremist attack…where the attacker used encrypted technology,” Barr noted.
Acting U.S. Attorney Seth D. DuCharme emphasized the severity of the crime, stating, “just before midnight on June 3, 2020, the defendant launched a surprise attack…nearly ending their lives. After stabbing a police officer in the neck, the defendant ripped a 9mm service pistol away from an officer and shot at the officers while perversely invoking religion.” DuCharme acknowledged the “technical tradecraft” employed by Camovic to cover his tracks but assured that the defendant “cannot escape the reach” of investigators. He expressed gratitude to the New York Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Kings County District Attorney’s Office.
FBI Director Christopher A. Wray condemned the attack, stating that the officers were “brutally attacked to further a violent agenda associated with ISIS and al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula.” He underscored the FBI’s commitment to protecting the U.S. from extremists. NYPD Commissioner Dermot F. Shea also addressed the attack, stating the officers were ambushed while on duty.
The investigation, a collaborative effort between the FBI, NYPD, and federal prosecutors, is ongoing. Authorities are working to determine the full extent of Camovic’s connections and any potential collaborators. The charges against Camovic carry significant penalties, potentially resulting in decades behind bars if convicted. This case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of extremist violence and the dedication of law enforcement to protect the public.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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