Ex-NY Gov. David Paterson attacked by 5 ruffians

Former New York Gov. Eric Paterson and his stepson "had no choice but to defend themselves" when they were attacked by a gang of five troublemakers in New York City recently.

Paterson, who is age 70 and legally blind, was out walking the family dog with his wife's son, Anthony Chester Sliwa.

According to NYPost.com, Paterson and Anthony Sliwa "were taking the family dog Bella for her nightly walk Friday when they encountered three youngsters, possibly teens, and an adult as the kids were climbing a fire escape on Second Avenue near East 96th Street shortly before 9 p.m.."

Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa, who is Anthony's birth father, explained some of what happened:

"They spotted these teens making their way up a fire escape. Anthony told the teens to come down. They did and were talking crap and went away. At that point [Paterson and Anthony] walked east on 96th street and when they turned the block, the teens were in a McDonalds with two adults and [all five came outside] confronted them. David and Anthony had no choice but to defend themselves," Curtis Sliwa said.

One of the five accused was a girl with purple braids, which is a unique identifying factor for anyone who might have information about this crime.

"Anthony was able to hold them off because Gov. Paterson is sight-challenged, but the governor was also in the middle of this too and they both stood their ground," Curtis Sliwa said.

Both Paterson and his stepson were transported to the hospital after the incident.

As of the time of writing, both had been released from the hospital, according to a spokesperson.

"Governor Paterson and his stepson, Anthony, were sent home early this morning," spokesman Sean Darcy said.

"The Governor’s only request is that people refrain from attempting to use an unfortunate act of violence for their own personal or political gain. He and his wife, Mary, are thankful for the quick response time from the police and the outpouring of support they have received from people across all spectrums. Governor Paterson’s main concern today is Kodai Senga and the New York Mets, but we will provide any additional updates as necessary," Darcy concluded.

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