Trump Spotlights Self-Defense Case: Jose Alba's Release from Rikers Island

Former President Trump made a strategic visit to what locals commonly refer to as West Harlem, emphasizing a key moment of self-defense by Jose Alba, the owner of a neighborhood bodega. Alba, 51, defended himself during a robbery in July 2022, fatally stabbing the assailant, Austin Simon, in the process. Despite being charged with second-degree murder and facing an exorbitant bail of $250,000, public outcry and political pressure led to Alba's release after six nights in Rikers Island. The incident sparked a heated debate about the rights of American citizens to defend their businesses without facing excessive legal consequences.