With millions of spectators at the New York Knicks' championship parade, some unusual things were bound to happen despite the record-breaking 10,000 officers on-site providing security.
Videos by Wide Open Country
One video captured a woman, dressed in the basketball team's gear, emptying an orange-and-blue trash can onto the street before stealing it from the parade. Another clip shows her riding the subway in the stolen bin.
The woman has now been identified and is facing the consequences for her actions. We have all the details below.
The Knicks Fan Was an Executive at JPMorgan Chase
As reported by the New York Post, the woman in the video is Angie Báez. More than a year ago, the 40-year-old was promoted to executive director of community and industry engagement for card and connected commerce at JPMorgan Chase.
She reportedly attended the parade in a personal capacity. But as the video went viral, the company investigated the incident. A spokesperson said, "This employee is no longer with the company."
Her Company Bio Now Sounds Ironic
Báez had served as executive director of diversity, equity, and inclusion at The Infatuation, a food review website. Chase acquired the company to gain a foothold in lifestyle content.
In her bio on the Infatuation's website, she is described as someone who is dedicated "to making a positive impact shines through in every aspect of her work." She also leaves "an indelible mark on the Infatuation and everything she touches."
Báez also co-founded Same Page Co., which is "focused on increasing representation and equity in media and industry. It works with artists/talent on creative projects, photoshoots, strategy, and business affairs."
Under New York City law, theft of property valued at under $1,000 is petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor. For first-time offenders, the consequences typically include a fine, a summons, or community service. Littering can bring additional penalties.
The New York City Department of Sanitation said in a statement that littering and stealing are "illegal, antisocial behaviors, and not what New Yorkers do."
It added, "On top of all that, doing both on camera is incredibly stupid."
While she was fired for her behavior, the New York Police Department has said that as of June 20, Báez has not been charged with a crime.
