The mother of a 12-year-old boy fatally shot by a stray bullet outside a Bronx bodega said New York City has become more dangerous for residents as criminals appear to have lost their fear of repercussions. Jacob Freytes was killed by a stray bullet on a Saturday evening and later died at a Bronx hospital. His mother, Migdalia Martinez, stated that criminals feel emboldened because of changes in the legal system, such as the reduction of jail time for misdemeanors and the absence of bail for many offenses.

Migdalia Martinez, 47, told The Post that while police officers risk their lives to apprehend suspects, the courts are not holding them accountable. "The system works more for the criminal than they're gonna work for the victim," she said. She believes that laws have been weakened, referencing the elimination of stop-and-frisk policies, which she felt allowed for proactive policing in public spaces.

William Ferrer, 45, a man with a criminal record, was arraigned Sunday night on murder, assault, and weapons charges. Police allege Ferrer fired a weapon during an altercation outside a South Bronx bodega, resulting in Freytes' death and injuries to two other individuals. Freytes' father is a retired NYPD detective sergeant.

Martinez, who was at her job in Midtown Manhattan when she learned of her son's shooting, rushed to the hospital only to find he had already been pronounced dead. She described a period of intense grief and anger following the news. A memorial for Jacob Freytes was held outside the family's apartment building, where friends and loved ones gathered.

Jacob's father, Jesus Freytes, is reportedly working with the District Attorney's office to ensure a conviction. Martinez emphasized that anything less than a murder conviction would be a profound injustice. "He took the life of a child. He was only 12," she said, recounting the potential life experiences her son will now miss. She expressed that a bullet has no name and can impact anyone, regardless of intent, calling the shooting a murder.

Ferrer's next court appearance is scheduled for Friday, and Martinez intends to be present to seek justice for her son.