United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III was involved in a serious incident on Tuesday, June 17, in downtown Albany. After leaving his office, Sarcone was confronted by Saul Morales-Garcia, a Salvadorian national who had entered the United States illegally in 2021 after a previous deportation. Morales-Garcia allegedly approached Sarcone with a knife and yelled in an unrecognized foreign language.
Sarcone sought refuge in the lobby of the Hilton Hotel as Morales-Garcia momentarily retreated but then attempted to draw attention to prevent further potential harm. The confrontation escalated when Morales-Garcia charged at Sarcone again, brandishing the knife and making threatening gestures. Law enforcement apprehended Morales-Garcia shortly thereafter.
Though physically unharmed, Sarcone expressed concern for public safety: “I felt an obligation to the public as the chief Federal law enforcement officer in the district that includes the city of Albany. I feared for my life but I couldn’t let this individual harm and potentially kill others.”
Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple praised Sarcone's actions: “U.S. Attorney John Sarcone’s selfless actions likely saved lives.”
Morales-Garcia faces multiple charges including attempted second-degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon. An order of protection was issued for Sarcone during Morales-Garcia's court appearance, and federal charges may also be forthcoming with ongoing investigations by the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations.
Sarcone, appointed U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York in March by Attorney General Pamela Bondi, stressed public safety as paramount: “Public safety is our highest priority,” he said while commending local law enforcement's rapid response.
The case against Morales-Garcia has been transferred to another jurisdiction due to potential conflicts of interest given Sarcone’s role. Meanwhile, Sarcone remains active in efforts to enhance collaboration between federal and local agencies to address crime across his district.
“I have spent the last three months going to 27 of the 32 counties thus far in my district conducting meetings with District Attorneys, Sheriffs, State Police and local police Chiefs," said Sarcone. "My offer of help has been well-received, and the results have been tremendous in helping these communities get rid of violent criminals."
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