Challenges Faced by Curtis Sliwa: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Curtis Sliwa's life and career.

Curtis Sliwa is an American activist and radio talk show host best known as the founder and CEO of the Guardian Angels, a non-profit dedicated to crime prevention through citizen patrols. He has a long history of community activism and a colorful public persona. In 2021, he ran as the Republican candidate for Mayor of New York City, ultimately losing to Eric Adams. Sliwa's political stances often reflect a conservative viewpoint within the context of New York City politics.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles

December 1981: Fatal Shooting of Frank Melvin

In December 1981, Guardian Angels member Frank Melvin was fatally shot by a Newark police officer. Curtis Sliwa claimed the killing was racially motivated. An Essex County grand jury cleared both officers of charges related to Melvin's death.

1981: Investigation into Guardian Angels

In 1981, then-Mayor Ed Koch, a critic of Curtis Sliwa, launched an investigation into the Guardian Angels. The investigation proved favorable, leading to the organization receiving some sort of official status. Lieutenant Governor Mario Cuomo voiced his support for the organization at the time.

June 19, 1992: Kidnapping and Shooting of Curtis Sliwa

On June 19, 1992, Curtis Sliwa was kidnapped and shot by two gunmen after entering a stolen taxi in Manhattan. He escaped by leaping from the moving cab and underwent surgery for his injuries.

September 20, 2005: Gotti Trial Ends Without Conviction

On September 20, 2005, after three attempts, three separate juries could not agree to convict John A. Gotti on any of the charges brought against him related to the attempted murder of Curtis Sliwa, and the charges were dropped.

November 2009: Cancellation of Show at WABC

In November 2009, Curtis Sliwa's show was cancelled at WABC after a contract dispute.

2010: Diagnosed with Cancer

In 2010, Curtis Sliwa was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

April 20, 2011: Public Announcement of Cancer Diagnosis

On April 20, 2011, Curtis Sliwa publicly announced his diagnosis with prostate cancer.

2017: Criticism of Mateo

In 2017, Curtis Sliwa criticized Fernando Mateo for donating to the re-election campaign of Mayor Bill de Blasio, a Democrat, and also accused Mateo of breaking the law.

November 2018: Loss of Ballot Access

In November 2018, the Reform Party of New York State lost its ballot access.

November 2, 2021: Loss in Mayoral Election

On November 2, 2021, Curtis Sliwa lost to Eric Adams in the general election for New York City mayor. Sliwa conceded that night.

2021: Sliwa's Mayoral Candidacy

In 2021, Curtis Sliwa ran as the Republican nominee for New York City mayor but lost to Democratic nominee Eric Adams.

August 2023: Arrest at Anti-Immigration Rally

In late August 2023, Curtis Sliwa and four other organizers were arrested after an anti-illegal immigration rally outside Gracie Mansion. The Manhattan district attorney's office declined to prosecute.