Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Queens residence is under heightened security measures after her campaign office was targeted with fake blood and death threats from pro-Palestinian activists.
According to the Daily Mail, AOC's fiancé, Riley Roberts, was spotted Tuesday morning coordinating with security personnel around their apartment building following a disturbing vandalism incident at her Bronx campaign headquarters. The congresswoman has received multiple death threats in recent days, prompting her team to strengthen safety protocols.
The security evaluation comes after pro-Palestinian protesters splattered fake blood across AOC's Bronx office, attaching a note that read "AOC Funds Genocide in Gaza." The incident occurred following her vote against an amendment proposed by Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene to cut $500 million in funding for Israel's Iron Dome defense system.
Roberts, wearing dark sunglasses and a baseball cap, was seen walking the couple's French Bulldog while engaging in serious discussions with security personnel about potential vulnerabilities around their $3,000-per-month Queens apartment.
The security team conducted a thorough assessment of the building's entry points, including the underground parking garage and external keypad access system. They documented various angles of the residence through photographs on their mobile devices.
Multiple security cameras already monitor the premises where the engaged couple has lived since 2022. The three-bedroom apartment features two bathrooms and a private balcony overlooking a busy street.
The Boogie Down Liberation Front took credit for vandalizing AOC's campaign office, declaring that "the Bronx is sick and tired of people like AOC using us as a stepping stone for their own political careers."
Video footage showed NYPD forensic officers collecting evidence at the scene after protesters left fake blood and threatening messages. The group accused AOC of hypocrisy regarding her stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Campaign manager Oliver Hidalgo-Wohlleben confirmed they are working with security partners to ensure the safety of the congresswoman, staff and volunteers amid the ongoing threats.
The progressive Democrat took to social media to explain her vote against Greene's amendment, stating it would only cut defensive capabilities while allowing offensive military aid to continue.
"I have long stated that I do not believe that adding to the death count of innocent victims to this war is constructive to its end," AOC posted on X. She emphasized her focus remains on stopping the flow of U.S. munitions being used in Gaza.
AOC has faced criticism from both progressive allies and opponents over her position on military funding related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The 35-year-old congresswoman's once-routine public appearances have become increasingly restricted due to security concerns. Roberts, who typically maintains a low profile, has taken an active role in coordinating protection measures.
While AOC advocates for police reform, her team has enlisted private security personnel to conduct risk assessments and implement enhanced safety protocols at both her residence and office locations.
The couple, who met as Boston University students, got engaged during a Puerto Rico vacation in April 2022. Despite the current security situation, they continue to reside in their Queens neighborhood while managing the heightened threats.
