Love conquers heights, not the law: Empire State proposal ends in arrest

Two Russian "rooftoppers", Angela Nikolau and Ivan Kuznetsov, were arraigned after allegedly climbing the 443-metre (1,454-foot) spire of the iconic Empire State Building on Wednesday afternoon.

Proposal atop New York's iconic skyscraper

Videos that have gone viral on social media show Ivan proposing to Angela at the summit of the skyscraper before the couple embraced and kissed.

Dressed in black, the pair also unfurled a peace banner bearing the message: "When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace."

The couple kissing shortly after they were released from police custody. Photo: Screen-grab/X

Arrest and criminal charges

The couple were arrested after climbing down from the landmark. Viral footage shows police escorting them away in custody, while both remained calm and composed throughout the arrest.

According to The Guardian, they have been charged with burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, criminal trespass, criminal tampering, disorderly conduct and possession of burglar's tools.

The two spent Wednesday night in separate holding cells before appearing in court on Thursday.

Released under supervision

Following their court appearance, both were released from police custody under supervision and are scheduled to appear in court again on August 24.

As they walked out of custody, the couple declined to answer most questions from reporters.

"Not now, guys... right now we are not ready... we just need to relax," Ivan said.

Moments later, the couple recreated their rooftop romance by sharing a passionate kiss outside the courthouse, prompting photographers to scramble for the perfect shot.

Security breach under investigation

Investigators are now trying to determine how the couple managed to access and climb the final section of the Empire State Building's spire, an area that is strictly off-limits to the public.

Completed in 1931, the Empire State Building is one of New York City's most iconic landmarks, and authorities are examining whether any security lapses enabled the couple's daring ascent.