NYPD Captain Emilio Melendez Sparks Outrage After Kicking Over Bronx Memorial Candles

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When we lose someone, there are few ways to honor their memory in the streets. People often put up murals and sometimes light candles for their loved ones. Junior, the young man who was tragically killed on the streets, is a clear example of this. The picture below shows how much love he received in the Bronx.

The community was deeply affected by his murder and showed their support in the ways available to them—candles and murals. They also called for swift justice, and the NYPD along with other police forces tracked down the individuals involved. This is all the community can do, and those candles hold meaning for us.

That said, a police officer with 28 years of experience should understand that dismantling a makeshift memorial is disrespectful to the memory being honored. Such actions can have consequences, both in terms of community trust and potentially escalating tensions. Officers are expected to serve and protect the community, which includes respecting its expressions of grief.

Captain Emilio Melendez was reportedly ordered by a superior officer to “clean up” after the Dominican Parade this past weekend. Instead of handling things respectfully, he kicked over and smashed the candles, reportedly saying “You ain’t gonna make a fire in my block.” This raises concerns about the approach taken in this situation.

First, expressing ownership over “his block” reflects a mindset that may not align with community-oriented policing. Officers work for the community and are responsible for protecting and serving all residents respectfully.

Second, by breaking the candles and leaving glass behind, an additional mess was created that others would have to clean up. This approach, combined with reportedly hurling threats, risks alienating local residents instead of building trust. Respect is a two-way street, and maintaining it can foster better relationships between officers and the communities they serve.

Captain Melendez is known to be a strict figure and recently returned from military service. While discipline is important, showing respect for community traditions and grieving processes is equally essential.

Consider how you might feel if a memorial for a fellow officer or soldier was treated this way. Such actions have the potential to create divisions rather than unity.

Captain Melendez, actions like these risk creating an “us versus them” mentality between the police and the community. Instead, working together toward safety and mutual respect benefits everyone. It’s important to remember this in every interaction.