NYC arrests two men for sewer scavenging near UN summit

Key points

• Kevin Rodriguez, 26, and Samuel Reveron, 25, were arrested on Friday for criminal trespass and conspiracy related to a Wednesday morning incident.
• Surveillance footage showed three men emerging from a manhole near Park Avenue and East 61st Street at approximately 4:30 a.m. before fleeing north.
• The location is near a hotel where Netanyahu typically stays during UN sessions, though he did not stay there this week.
• Police stated the suspects were searching for valuables like gold and copper that accumulate in storm drains after heavy rain.
• Both defendants pleaded not guilty and were released without bail; Reveron was placed on supervised release, while Rodriguez was released on his own recognizance.

Background

This incident follows a series of mysterious sewer sightings across New York City since May 2026. Previous reports involved individuals emerging from manholes in Brooklyn, Queens, and near Madison Square Garden, leading to public speculation about 'mole people' or influencer stunts. In August, police investigated a similar incident near Penn Station. Authorities have consistently warned that entering sewers is illegal and dangerous due to toxic gases and flooding risks. A woman died in Midtown Manhattan earlier this year after falling into an open manhole.

How outlets are covering it

The Guardian and WABC reported that the suspects were released without bail because the charges were not eligible for bail setting. BBC noted that the suspects are from Queens and pleaded not guilty. CNN emphasized that while the incident triggered a national security response involving the Secret Service, the motive was ultimately determined to be economic desperation rather than terrorism. NBC News highlighted that Reveron's attorney denied any connection to the UN or nefarious schemes, arguing that the case lacks substance if the only intent was scavenging. The New York Post cited a statement from Reveron claiming they sought 'gold, anything of value.'

Why it matters

The case illustrates the tension between routine urban crime and high-profile security protocols during international summits. While the suspects' actions were motivated by scavenging for scrap metal, their proximity to a high-security location triggered a multi-agency response. It also underscores the ongoing public safety risks associated with unauthorized access to New York's underground infrastructure, which has seen a surge in such incidents this year.

What to watch

Police are conducting additional security sweeps in the area due to the sensitivity of the location. Investigators are seeking additional suspects, as three individuals were seen at the scene but only two were arrested. The city's Department of Environmental Protection continues to warn the public against entering pipes or manholes due to the risk of toxic gases and flooding.