Radical Pro-Abortion Agitator Who Viciously Attacked Brave Pro-Life Activist in Harlem Is Charged and Arrested
NEW YORK CITY — The woman who viciously assaulted a peaceful pro-life activist during a street interview in Harlem has been arrested and charged, following widespread public outrage and calls for justice from conservative communities.
The NYPD confirmed the arrest of Brianna J. Rivers, 30, the suspect identified in the unprovoked assault caught on camera earlier this week. The disturbing footage shows Rivers approaching 22-year-old Therese Harnett, a young Catholic and pro-life activist, before sucker-punching her without warning, knocking her to the ground in a violent and cowardly act.
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According to police statements and eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred on April 6 as Harnett was being interviewed on the sidewalk by an independent journalist about her beliefs on abortion and the sanctity of life. The assailant, described by authorities as a “known agitator,” stormed into the scene, hurled profanities, and blindsided Harnett with a punch that sent her crashing into the concrete.
Rivers has now been charged with assault and harassment. His actions were immediately condemned by pro-life organizations, faith leaders, and members of the public who viewed the video, which went viral across social media platforms and sparked an outcry for law enforcement to take swift action.
The brutal nature of the attack was compounded by the fact that Harnett posed no threat and was peacefully exercising her First Amendment rights. The footage shows her speaking calmly about her Christian values and belief in protecting unborn children when she was violently interrupted.
This case has reignited debate over increasing hostility toward conservative and Christian voices in public discourse, particularly those who advocate for unborn life. Critics argue that leftist ideologies have emboldened violent behavior from radical activists, particularly in liberal strongholds like New York City, where pro-life speech is often met with hostility.
“This is the kind of violence that comes from the far-left’s refusal to tolerate differing opinions,” said one conservative commentator in response to the footage. “A peaceful young woman is physically attacked for standing up for life. If this were reversed, the media would be calling it a hate crime.”
Therese Harnett has since spoken out publicly, expressing forgiveness for her attacker but urging authorities to take a stand against politically motivated violence. “I forgive him, but we need to send a message that violence is not acceptable,” she said, according to statements posted to social media.
While mainstream networks largely ignored the story, conservative outlets and commentators brought attention to the attack, demanding accountability and questioning why law enforcement took several days to act despite clear video evidence and public tips identifying the suspect.
According to The Gateway Pundit, Rivers was located and arrested following pressure from concerned citizens who flooded NYPD tip lines with information. Despite facing backlash, the department confirmed his arrest on April 10, stating that he is now in custody and facing multiple charges related to the assault.
As of Friday, Harnett’s supporters have called for increased protection of pro-life advocates, especially women and young people, who face mounting hostility simply for speaking publicly about their beliefs. “No one should be afraid to talk about protecting innocent life,” one rallygoer said at a recent pro-life vigil held in support of Harnett.
The attack has also drawn attention to the broader issue of selective enforcement and media bias, with many pointing out the glaring double standard in how violent incidents are portrayed when the victim is conservative or pro-life. Had the roles been reversed, critics argue, the incident would have dominated headlines nationwide.
The NYPD has not released further details about Rocca’s past but confirmed that he has a record of disruptive behavior. No evidence has emerged to suggest that the attack was provoked in any way by Harnett, reinforcing the perception that this was a targeted assault against a peaceful pro-life demonstrator.
Legal analysts suggest that Rocca could face more serious charges if the investigation reveals that the assault was politically or ideologically motivated. Prosecutors have yet to classify the attack as a hate crime, despite widespread calls for them to do so.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangerous environment pro-life Americans face in many urban centers dominated by progressive leadership. While free speech is constitutionally protected, there appears to be a growing trend of intimidation and violence aimed at silencing conservative viewpoints—particularly those rooted in Christian values.
As Harnett recovers, she has expressed her intent to continue her advocacy, stating that she will not be silenced by violence or fear. “This only makes me stronger,” she said. “We have to keep fighting for the unborn, no matter what.”
The case is expected to be closely watched by both legal observers and advocacy groups as it proceeds through the courts. Many are calling for the fullest extent of justice to be applied to send a message that politically motivated violence will not be tolerated—no matter how unpopular the viewpoint being expressed may be.
