The Guardian Angels are rallying behind the Newburgh community after a police officer was stabbed while breaking up an alleged gang-related fight.

Newburgh Officer Richard Hammer was stabbed over the weekend while trying to stop alleged gang members from attacking a rival. Edson Godinez, 17, and Emmanuel Flores, 20, face charges in the incident.

The suspected target of the attack and Hammer were transported to a hospital. Both are expected to recover.

Residents say the usually quiet area has taken a turn for the worse. "No way I'm coming out here after dark," says Frank Babcock. "These streets are too crazy."

The Guardian Angels believe starting a Newburgh chapter may be part of a solution. "Newburgh is in need of help," says member Ruben Estrada. "And why not? What more than having more eyes and ears in the street and the schools so we could eradicate the problem."

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