A Brooklyn man has pleaded guilty to setting fire to multiple New York City Police Department vehicles in a pre-dawn arson attack that caused extensive damage and disrupted public safety operations.
Jakhi McCray, 22, admitted Wednesday in federal court in Brooklyn to setting 10 NYPD vehicles and one trailer ablaze on June 12, 2025, in the Bushwick section of Brooklyn. The plea was entered before U.S. Magistrate Judge Seth D. Eichenholtz.
Core Details
According to federal prosecutors, McCray scaled a fence into a secured NYPD lot on DeKalb Avenue between Wilson and Central avenues before intentionally setting fire to the vehicles.
An officer assigned to inspect the lot spotted the flames shortly after the fires were set and observed McCray fleeing through a hole in the fence, authorities said.
McCray later surrendered to law enforcement on July 21, 2025.
Investigators estimate the fires caused more than $800,000 in damage.
Investigation and Context
Authorities said the arson occurred just two days before scheduled protests across New York City, placing additional strain on police resources tasked with maintaining public safety.
Federal officials described the incident as both deliberate and dangerous, noting the risk posed to nearby residents and responding emergency personnel.
The case was investigated by a joint task force that included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the NYPD, and the FDNY.
“The defendant’s actions were not only dangerous, but they were also a direct attack on public safety and the rule of law,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “By deliberately setting fire to multiple police vehicles in the pre-dawn hours, the defendant put at risk the lives of first responders and residents asleep in their beds nearby, and ultimately, strained resources meant to protect the community.
Legal Stakes
McCray pleaded guilty to federal arson charges and now faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum of 20 years. He could also be ordered to pay fines and restitution, which will be determined at sentencing.
Prosecutors emphasized the seriousness of the offense, citing the scale of destruction and the potential risk to life.
What’s Next
McCray remains awaiting sentencing in federal court, where a judge will determine the final penalty.
Photo: NYPD.
