Hate crime charges filed after intruder confronts Craig Melvin at ‘Today’ show 

By D. Kevin McNeir 
Special to the AFRO 

Craig Melvin, co-host on the popular NBC “Today” show, reported that he is “safe and sound” after an intruder breached security at New York City’s 30 Rockefeller Center on July 16, lunging at Melvin and then shouting a racial slur.

The alleged intruder, Andrew Truelove, who has since been arrested by the New York Police Department officials, reportedly gained access to a restricted area in the studio by hiding behind an employee. He then attempted to locate the show’s veteran weatherman, Al Roker but instead was confronted by Melvin. After demanding to be advised of Roker’s whereabouts, Truelove called Melvin the “n-word” and lunged at him. 

While the investigation continues to ascertain the intruder’s motives, he remains in police custody at Rikers Island on $10,000 bond. He has been charged with burglary in the third degree as a hate crime and a count of menacing in the third degree as a hate crime. If convicted, Truelove, who reportedly already has a criminal history, could face up to 15 years in prison.  

Scores of supporters took to the internet, issuing words of encouragement to Melvin, who broke his silence on social media July 16, writing, “I’ve heard from many of you over the last few hours. I’m doing just fine. Thanks for reaching out. I’m looking forward to seeing you tomorrow on @TODAYSHOW.” 

Melvin addressed the incident in more detail on July 17, both during the show and via social media.  

“You may have heard that unfortunately an intruder made his way into an unauthorized area here at Studio 1A,” he said. “Thankfully, he was apprehended quickly, he was placed under arrest, we are cooperating with NYPD as they investigate the matter, and we are just very happy that everyone is safe,” Melvin said. 

Roker also released a statement on social media, showing his support for his colleague and relating his gratitude that no one was harmed. 

“A really heartfelt thank you to all who reached out over the last 24 hours to check in on my brother, @craigmelvinnbc. We are both okay,” Roker said on Instagram on July 17 in the first of a series of comments he made throughout the day.  

NBC News officials, addressing the issue of failed safety protocol, have since fired the security guard who allegedly allowed the intruder to gain access to the studio.

Further safety precautions were initiated by both Roker and Melvin who secured restraining orders against Truelove. 

As more comments from fans of the show and friends of Melvin and Roker appear in the public sphere, observations related to how Black journalists are often disrespected and denigrated by political figures, actors, and the general public took center stage. 

Organizations like the National Association of Black Journalists have long cited numerous incidents in which Black journalists, particularly Black women, have been subjected to disproportionate hostility, insults and belittlement while simply attempting to perform their duties as journalists. 

Journalists including Rachel Scott, April Ryan, Yamiche Alcindor and Kristen Welker have been insulted by political juggernauts, including the 47th president, and referred to as stupid or nasty. And in recent years, even white journalists have gotten a taste of the kinds of inappropriate treatment and remarks that have long been routine for their colleagues of color.  

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