# U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton Praises Police Athletic League at NYC Luncheon
U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton addressed the Police Athletic League's annual luncheon on September 16, 2025, at 320 Park Avenue in New York. Clayton praised the NYPD's role in making New York streets safer than other major cities and commended PAL Chairman John Catsimatidis for his leadership of the organization.
PAL, the largest independent youth nonprofit in New York City, traces its roots to 1914 when Police Commissioner Arthur Woods converted vacant lots into safe play spaces. The organization currently operates 27 youth centers across all five boroughs, serving more than 20,000 young people ages 3 to 21. Clayton highlighted PAL's mission to work with law enforcement to support and inspire youth development.
Clayton also recognized former U.S. Attorney and Manhattan District Attorney Robert Morgenthau, who previously served as PAL president and chairman. The remarks emphasized collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in New York, positioning PAL as an important community resource for youth opportunity and development.
Court-approved GPS, SCRAM, house arrest, and breathalyzer monitoring across Washington State.