Yeonsoo Go Released on August 4, 2025 After Five Days of Fear and Uncertainty
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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(Updated August 6, 2025) After five days in detention, Scarsdale’s Yeonsoo Go was released by ICE on August 4, 2025. The 20 year-old rising sophomore was detained at Federal Plaza by ICE agents on July 31 after a routine visa hearing.
Though her visa was not set to expire until December, 2025 and she was following all legal procedures to renew it, she was seized by ICE and flown to a detention center in Louisiana. Friends and supporters held a protest in Federal Plaza on August 2, 2025 and enlisted the support of New York lawmakers to intervene on her behalf.
See the statement below from Assemblywoman Amy Paulin who secured her release with other New York lawmakers. A vigil that had been planned for Yeonsoo in Chase Park on Thursday August 7 has now been cancelled.
August 4, 2025 Statement from Assemblywoman Amy Paulin on the Release of Yeonsoo Go
I spoke with Yeonsoo Go tonight, and hearing her voice—happy, relieved, and finally free—filled me with emotion I can hardly put into words. She is home, she is safe, and she is so grateful for the outpouring of love and support from this incredible community.
I am overjoyed, moved to tears, and filled with pride in everyone who stood up for Yeonsoo. The pain, fear, and uncertainty she and her family endured over the past five days should never have happened—but tonight we celebrate her freedom and the strength of a community that refused to stay silent.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Senator Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Congressman George Latimer, Congresswoman Grace Meng, and Congressman Mike Lawler for their swift efforts to help secure Yeonsoo’s release.
Because of this joyous outcome, the vigil and rally planned for this Thursday at 5pm is now cancelled. But the spirit behind it—unity, justice, and compassion—lives on. Let this moment remind us of the power we have when we come together, and of the work we must continue to ensure that no one is unjustly detained in this country.
August 6 Statement from State Senator Shelley B. Mayer
State Senator Shelley B. Mayer said, "I am deeply relieved that Yeonsoo has been released from ICE custody and has been reunited with her family. While I am grateful for the swift actions of my colleagues Assemblywoman Amy Paulin, Congressman George Latimer, Congressman Michael Lawler, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Senator Chuck Schumer, the Episcopal Diocese of New York, and the advocacy of so many in our community, we must not forget that Yeonsoo should have never been detained. Based on the information provided by her lawyer, Yeonsoo is a lawful, law abiding resident of the United States and has not been accused nor convicted of any crime.
"ICE’s actions against Yeonsoo, like their actions against thousands of others across this country, were unconstitutional and unacceptable. There is no justification for detaining law abiding individuals who are residing lawfully in the United States and attending immigration hearings as required.
"While we celebrate Yeonsoo’s release and her safe return home, we cannot forget about the thousands of other individuals, including many of our own community members, who are being held in custody without due process right now. Nor can we stop speaking up about ICE’s inhumane and hyper-agressive actions which are tearing our communities apart in fear and anxiety. I continue to stand firmly with our immigrant neighbors and will never stop fighting in the New York State Senate to protect their rights and to uphold the premises of our system of democracy."
Hartsdale Couple and Nanny Charged in Connection with Brutal Kidnapping and Assault
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This in from the Westchester County District Attorney:
Westchester County District Attorney Susan Cacace announced the indictments and arrests of a married Hartsdale couple and their nanny who were charged in connection with the kidnapping and assault of a 19-year old Queens woman.
All three defendants were arraigned by Judge Susan Capeci on July 10th. The details regarding the defendants and their charges are as follows:
Wayne Barnes, 44-years old of Hartsdale was charged with Kidnapping in the Second Degree, Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, two counts of Assault in the Second Degree and three counts of Assault in the Third Degree. He was released on $300,000 bond.
Jasmine Barnes, 42-years old of Hartsdale, wife of Wayne Barnes, was charged with Kidnapping in the Second Degree, Menacing in the Second Degree, two counts of Assault in the Second Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree. She was released on bail.
Lizbeth Cerrato-Sanchez, 19-years old of Yonkers, was charged with Assault in the Second Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree. She was released on $10,000 bond.
The allegations are as follows. On May 16, 2025, Wayne Barnes, the owner of Sons of Ink tattoo parlor in the Bronx, offered a ride home to the 19-year old female victim, an employee of Barnes. Barnes, who is married to co-defendant Jasmine Barnes, had become romantically involved with the victim. On the drive to the victim’s home in Queens, Barnes got into a heated argument with the victim at which time he forced her out of the car along the Grand Central Parkway in Queens. After allowing the victim back in the car he allegedly assaulted her, striking her numerous times with an expandable metal baton.
After receiving a phone call from his wife, co-defendant Jasmine Barnes, Wayne Barnes then drove back to the Bronx to pick up his wife, repeatedly striking the victim with the metal baton along the way. Jasmine Barnes, who was allegedly wearing black gloves and was also armed with a metal baton, then joined her husband and the victim and began to drive to their home in Hartsdale.
Upon arrival to their home in Hartsdale, Wayne and Jasmine Barnes dragged the victim into their home where Jasmine Barnes allegedly pushed the victim down a flight of stairs, dragged her by the hair and struck her with the metal baton. Lizbeth Cerrato-Sanchez, nanny for the Barnes family, was at the Hartsdale home tending to the Barnes children at the time of this incident. At one point, Cerrato-Sanchez also assaulted the victim, allegedly punching her in the face while Barnes continued to strike the victim with the baton. After allowing Cerrato-Sanchez to go home, Wayne and Jasmine Barnes continued to argue with and threaten the 19-year old female victim.
The victim was eventually able to convince Jasmine Barnes to give her cell phone back to her and was allowed to change out of her bloody clothes into clean clothes. The victim was then allowed to leave the house and go home in an Uber. The next day she was treated at a local hospital for her injuries and then reported the incident to the Greenburgh Police Department. After a swift investigation, Greenburgh PD placed the three defendants under arrest on May 20, 2025.
Wayne and Jasmine Barnes are due back in court in Westchester on July 29, 2025. Lizbeth Cerrato-Sanchez is due back in court on August 7, 2025.
Jasmine Barnes also faces the following charges in the Bronx: Attempted Assault in the First Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, Attempted Assault in the Second Degree, Unlawful Imprisonment in the First Degree Menacing in the Second Degree, Assault in the Third Degree, Unlawful Imprisonment in the Second Degree, Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree and Harassment in the Second Degree.
DA Cacace said: “The level of depravity shown by the defendants in this case is astonishing. Incidents like this underscore the importance of multiple jurisdictions being able to work together to swiftly deliver justice. I commend all of the agencies involved in this important case.”
This multi-jurisdictional case is being handled by the Greenburgh Police Department, Assistant District Attorneys Mollie O’Rourke and Sarah Gewirtz of the Special Prosecutions Division of the Westchester County DA’s Office, the NYPD, Bronx DA’s Office and the Nassau County DA’s Office.
Dim Sum Comes to Scarsdale
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- Written by: Wendy MacMillan
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A new flavor has arrived in Westchester, and it’s ready to steal your heart and appetite. Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings is proud to announce the grand opening of its newest location in Scarsdale bringing handcrafted Chinese cuisine and vibrant culinary tradition to one of the region’s most beloved communities. The new Scarsdale location officially opened its doors on July 8th with a festive Grand Opening that included a special ribbon cutting ceremony and a traditional Lion Dance performance.
Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings began with a heartfelt gift—Kelly’s grandma, lovingly known as Nana, passed down her cherished family recipes with the hope they’d one day be shared more widely. Kelly and her husband Jack were living in Boston at the time, but eventually made the move to Colorado, where Jack began turning Nana’s recipes into something bigger. With the help of close friends and family, they opened what is now a growing brand with five successful locations across the state of Colorado.
Now, their story is coming full circle. Friends from the East Coast—many of whom grew up in the restaurant industry—are excited to bring Nana’s back home. For them, this isn’t just a business opportunity. It’s a way to honor tradition, carry on a legacy, and share food that means something deeply personal.
Step into Nana’s and be transported. This is more than a meal — it’s an experience. Every delicate dumpling, every fragrant bite, is a harmony of tradition and innovation. From classic techniques passed down through generations to bold new flavor profiles designed to surprise and delight, Nana’s invites you to taste a story in every dish.
About Nana's Dim Sum & Dumplings
Nana's Dim Sum & Dumplings is a family-run restaurant dedicated to bringing the rich flavors of traditional Chinese dim sum to Scarsdale. With a focus on handcrafted dishes and authentic culinary techniques, Nana's has quickly become a destination for global eats and Chinese cuisine.
Diners at the new Scarsdale location at 709 White Plains Roadd, can expect delicacies like:
-Handcrafted steamed and fried dumplings, including signature truffle soup buns
-Savory and sweet bao
-Crispy-skinned Peking duck
-Jumbo crab rangoons, baked eel, and a rotating menu of seasonal delights
Eat in or order takeout. For more information see their website here https://nanasdimsumanddumplings.com/
Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings
709 White Plains Road
Scarsdale, NY 10583
(914) 487-0030
(914) 487-0031
First Paw-looza in Scarsdale Village
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On Sunday, June 22nd, Scarsdale Village was abuzz with tails, treats, and community spirit. Hosted by Destination Scarsdale, the Village of Scarsdale, Scarsdale Business Alliance, and SPCA Westchester, our first-ever Paw‐looza transformed the Farmers Market into a pet paradise with no registration, no fee, and just four-legged fun for all.
An estimated 1,100 families, friends, and puppies mingled amidst the market, taking part in this lively celebration of animals within our community.
Highlights from the Day
- Puppy Cuddle Station: Soft blankets, excited puppies, and endless smiles, especially amongst the littlest visitors!
- Dog Photo Booth: Fun frames and puppy grins, capturing the perfect shot.
- Pup‐Cup Bar: Canines lapping up pup‐cups while their families sampled organic honey from nearby stalls.
- Sniffari (Dog Nose‐fun): A favorite: dogs followed trails of hidden treats and familiar scents under volunteer guidance. “Sniffing taps instinct, builds confidence, and it’s just in their nature,” explained a volunteer at this activity.
- Donation Drive: Visitors dropped off pet food, toys, and blankets for SPCA Westchester’s shelters.
Sofia Clark
- Mobile Adoption Unit: An SPCA van welcomed excited adopters to meet puppies, kittens, cats, and dogs—many of whom soon found their loving families by the end of the event!
Sofia Clark, a rising sophomore at Scarsdale High School, shares a happy moment with her dog, Crumpet and the “sniffari” stand that brought them here. “I wanted Crumpet to try the sniffing activity,” she explained. “It sounds like so much fun!” The event invited puppies to follow scent trails, keeping them mentally engaged and confident while their families cheered them on.
Jodi from Pet RescueJodi from Pet Rescue in Harrison smiled wide as she manned the adoption station. She’s spent three years helping dogs find homes, stating that events like this not only boost adoptions but amplify their organization’s impact throughout Westchester.
First-time participant Megan, an animal care specialist with SPCA Westchester, was all smiles as she shared that their puppies were “going quickly!” She called the day a success, saying she was having “an amazing time” connecting adoptable dogs with loving families.
The Therapy Dogs of AmericaThe Therapy Dogs of America, the East Coast chapter, brought their energy to Paw-looza with their welcoming booth and mission of connection. “We’re here to spread awareness, joy, and to introduce people to their potential therapy dogs,” said Heidi, a team member excited to continue their growing presence at local events this summer.
Scarsdale’s first Paw‐looza wasn’t just a meet‐up...it was a celebration of community, kindness, and canine comfort. Whether you adopted a furry friend or cheered on the sniffing puppy stars, the day offered something for every heart.
Parking in Scarsdale: A Complex Issue
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If you’ve ever been confused about where you are permitted to park in Scarsdale Village, for how long and how to pay, you’re not alone. Scarsdale’s parking rubric is a complex system of metered parking and permit parking which can be paid at pay stations, via Pango or through the purchase of permits of varying lengths.
Take a look at the graphic above to see the mix of parking solutions ranging from 20 minutes to 12 hour spots.
How well are Scarsdale’s parking systems serving residents, non-residents, shoppers, diners and commuters and what can be done to improve them? That was the subject of a work session of the Village Board of Trustees on June 17, 2025.
Deputy Village Manager Stephen Shallo gave a comprehensive presentation about parking permit fees, usage, demand and revenue.
Fees for parking permits, on-street meters and Pango generate significant revenue for the Village with $1,092,657 from permits, $811,376 from parking meters and $363,356 from Pango, for a total of $2.26mm per year. See the breakdown of these fees here:
The chart below shows that demand for spaces near the station and a Christie Place is strong, while the parking garage at Freightway is underutilized by both residents and non-residents.
Shallo outlined a host of questions about how to maximize usage, revenue and serve the community.
Here are some challenges
-One of the main complaints from those who visit the Village is that it is often difficult to find a place to park. According to the Scarsdale Business Alliance though merchants can park at Freightway, they often do not, citing the distance and safety concerns. This results in merchants parking in the public spaces, leaving fewer spots for customers, shoppers and diners.
-For those who use Pango, some report a lack of internet connectivity with the app in the Village. Sometimes the app prepopulates with the wrong parking zone, resulting in parking tickets. And since there are 18 Pango zones, this can be confusing. To address this, Shallo recommended consolidating these zones by parking meter limits, though consolidating the number of zones will diminish the ability of the Village to track and analyze parking by location.
-Currently, there is no overnight parking permitted in the Village. All parking ends at 11 pm. This leaves some Village residents with nowhere to leave their cars overnight.
Recommendations
Shallo reviewed some operational recommendations for permit holders using vendors IPS or FBS for the parking portals.
He recommended adjusting the time limits for meters at different locations as follows with the goal of providing drivers with more flexibility when visiting the business district:
East Parkway meters:
Increase 90 minute meters between Popham Road and Christie Place to two hours.
Decrease 8-hour meters between Christie Place and Crane Road to 4 hour meters.
Chase Road meters
Increase 90 minute meters between Popham Road and Boniface Circle to 2 hour meters.
Since different meters have different hours of operation, some beginning at 6 am and others at 8 am he recommended making these consistent to be in effect from 6 am to 6 pm.
To address the need for overnight parking for people living in the Village, he recommended offering overnight parking permits from 11 pm to 6 am at the Christie Place Garage.
Shallo said that some residents have expressed frustration with the process for renewing permits, as there is no preference given to those who currently have a permit. He recommended giving existing permit holders a two-week renewal period and then making permits available to all.
To address the issue of merchant parking, he said that currently merchants are allowed to purchase resident parking permits, which reduces the number of spaces available to residents. He recommended restricting merchants to merchant permits only. In order to encourage merchants to park in the Freightway lot, he recommended that they be permitted to park on levels 5 and 4.
Currently parking at Christie Place is free on Saturdays. In order to make parking consistent with other locations in the Village which requirement payment for Saturdays, he recommended charging for parking at Christie Place on Saturdays.
There’s more information and recommendations to review here:
Though no formal changes were made following the presentation, the board was in agreement about offering a limited number of permits for overnight parking at Christie Place from 11 pm to 6 am for those who require it.
At the conclusion of the meeting there was time for public comment.
Marian Green of 43 Butler Road who is the Chair of the Council on People with Disabilities expressed the need for accommodations for the handicapped. She suggested that people who are in handicapped parking spaces should get extra time on the meter. She said, “In White Plains you pay for 1 hour and get 3 in a handicapped spot. If you can’t find a handicapped spot, you could park with your permit and get extra time and extra space.” She asked to have some input into the parking decisions. Saying “We would like to be counted.”
Susan Douglass discussed a parking study done by the Scarsdale Forum’s Municipal Service Committee who monitored parking in Freightway, in the open lot, the Beatty lot and merchant parking. They found that Freightway was vastly underutilized.
Douglass said, “The downtown should be lively and utilized. People don’t want to park in indoor lots. They complain because the metered spots are filled. The merchants park there and fill up the spots rather than parking at Freightway. We recommend that the Village offer discounts to park at Freightway and leave the street parking for the shoppers and diners.
David Lampert said he requires overnight parking and said that excess capacity could be leveraged.
If you have questions about parking feel free to reach out to Deputy Village Manager Stephen Shallo at SShallo@Scarsdale.gov or 914-722-1108.
