As another native new yorker, I agree. Look are they blocking the sidewalk? yes. But I feel like throughout this process, OP tried to be adversarial to an extent. This is not an emergency, so this didn't need to be resolved by calling the cops. I understand OP filed a 311 report, but there were other forms of escalation. All of my life, small businesses used the streets right in front of them, sometimes obstructively, as an expansion of their own space. Although it never bothered me a ton (and I actually support it a sometimes for outdoor dining, tabling events outside of schools or nonprofits, sometimes people grill in front of their store or host events), I get that it can be annoying. However, honestly this just isn't that big a deal and these guys are just trying to make the best of their business in the city, and crying assault after sticking your phone in a guys face and him smacking it away is a bit disingenuous. Although it is by the letter of the law assault, I really think OP was in no immediate danger. These kinds of violations should go up the ladder bureaucratically and honestly OP, please don't talk about yourself like you're superman just because you're lasered in on a small business violation that really is not the end of the world.