This is terrible.
Judge Sheila Abdus-Salaam, the FIRST Black female appeals Judge of the highest court in the state, was found dead on the shore of the Hudson River in NYC.
The 65-year-old Judge was pronounced dead at the scene, after police responded to a call of a woman’s body being found in the water near West 132nd street, via ABC 7.
There’s been no word on cause of death as of yet.
NY Governor Andrew Cuomo released a statement on Judge Abdus-Salaam’s tragic passing:
“Justice Sheila Abdus-Salaam was a trailblazing jurist whose life in public service was in pursuit of a more fair and more just New York for all.
“As the first African-American woman to be appointed to the State’s Court of Appeals, she was a pioneer. Through her writings, her wisdom, and her unshakable moral compass, she was a force for good whose legacy will be felt for years to come.
“I was proud to appoint her to the state’s highest court and am deeply saddened by her passing.
“On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my deepest sympathies to her family, loved ones and colleagues during this trying and difficult time.”
Nassau County District Attorney Madeline Singas also reacted to the news, via her Twitter feed:
Statement from DA Madeline Singas:
Sheila Abdus-Salaam was a groundbreaking jurist whose distinguished service on the Court of Appeals…— Nassau County DA (@NassauDA) April 12, 2017
…the New York State Supreme Court, as a public defender and public servant made our communities stronger and more just…
— Nassau County DA (@NassauDA) April 12, 2017
My heart goes out to her family, friends and colleagues as they mourn this tragic loss.
— Nassau County DA (@NassauDA) April 12, 2017
We here at BSO offer our condolences to Judge Sheila Abdus-Salaam’s friends & family as well, thank her for her service to her community, and continue to be grateful for people of color such as her that provide endless mentorship & leadership with how they carry themselves every day.
