NYPD Nabs Assailant Two Years Later, DA Bragg Sets $1 Bail Amid Bail Reform Debate

New York, NY – A man accused of assaulting a New York Post reporter two years ago has been apprehended, with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office reportedly setting a controversial $1 bail for the assault charge. The incident has reignited public debate surrounding New York's bail reform laws and their impact on public safety.

Kamieo Caines, 36, was arrested on August 18, 2025, in Midtown, two years after he allegedly sucker-punched a New York Post reporter on August 8, 2023. The reporter, who captured a photo of Caines moments after the attack, expressed frustration on social media: > "What the buck? NYPD finally nabs brute who attacked me two years ago, and DA Bragg asks for a lousy $1 bail."

While Bragg's office requested a $1 bail for the misdemeanor assault charge, Caines is being held on $200,000 bail for drug-related charges, which led to his recent apprehension. Police sources indicated that the drug case was crucial in keeping the statute of limitations open for the two-year-old assault. Caines reportedly has 20 prior arrests, including for violent crimes, and was on parole at the time of the 2023 assault.

The low bail amount for the assault charge has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from those who argue that New York's 2019 bail reform laws are too lenient on certain offenses. Critics, including the New York Post, contend that these reforms often lead to a "revolving door" for offenders, allowing individuals accused of non-bail-eligible crimes to be released quickly. DA Bragg has faced ongoing scrutiny for his progressive policies, which aim to reduce incarceration for low-level offenses and focus resources on more serious crimes.

However, supporters of bail reform argue that its intent is to prevent the unjust detention of individuals who pose no flight risk or danger, particularly for non-violent offenses. They emphasize that the reforms aim to address systemic inequities in the justice system. Despite the ongoing debate, the incident underscores the tension between criminal justice reform efforts and public safety concerns in New York City. The reporter has obtained a restraining order against Caines and is receiving victim services.