Paterson Ties Muslim Cab Driver Stabbing To Park51 Controversy

Gov. Paterson sees a connection between the stabbing of Muslim cab driver Ahmed Sharif and the fervor over the proposed Islamic Center near ground zero.

In a statement on the vicious attack, Paterson says that it is "the potential for this kind of violence" that has instigated his calls for meetings regarding the beleaguered Islamic center.

Paterson's full statement below:

"In the wake of the alleged hate crime against a New York City taxi driver, I must take this opportunity to remind New Yorkers that we cannot and will not allow bias and ignorance to infect our communities and deny our hard working, innocent residents the respect they deserve.

"The potential for this kind of violence is one of the reasons why I have called publicly for a respectful and unifying conversation about the Park51 project. I continue to offer my assistance for an open dialogue that I believe will help to bring New Yorkers together.

"Additionally, I'd like to thank the New York Police Department and first responders for their quick response to the scene and speedy apprehension of the suspect."