'Law & Order' Actor Stops Man From Abducting Woman Off The Street
By iHeartRadio
November 19, 2025
George Pogatsia, known for his roles in Law & Order and The Sopranos, became a real-life hero when he stopped a potential abduction in Jersey City. On November 1, Pogatsia and his wife noticed a suspicious scene near their home. A man was attempting to abduct a visibly intoxicated 19-year-old girl and her cousin.
Pogatsia, who often portrays villains on screen, sprang into action after his wife alerted him to the situation. He saw the man, described as about 6'2" and dressed in black, trying to lead the young women down the street. Pogatsia confronted the man, demanding he release the girl. "Where you going, mother-----?" Pogatsia can be heard shouting on a 911 call obtained by TMZ.
The situation escalated when the man hoisted the girl onto his shoulder. Pogatsia's intervention forced the man to drop her and flee. Police arrived shortly after, ensuring the girl's safety, though the suspect managed to escape.
Pogatsia's actions earned him praise and a letter of appreciation from President Donald Trump. Reflecting on the incident, Pogatsia told NBC New York, "I usually play a bad guy, but it’s a lot more rewarding to be a real-life good guy."