Couple that climbed Empire State Building is released after court

The couple of daredevils who scaled the Empire State Building in New York City were released from custody under supervision after a court appearance on July 2, according to reports.

Ivan Beerkus, 32, and Angela Nikolau, 33, a duo from Russia, climbed to the top of the Empire State Building's 1,454-foot-tall antenna on July 1 and unfurled a black banner in a stunt that also appeared to include a marriage proposal.

"When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace," their banner read.

They were arrested upon their descent at about 12:30 p.m., police said. They face charges of reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, violation of local law, possession of burglar's tools, criminal tampering, criminal trespass and disorderly conduct. Police had to shut down streets in the area in response to the stunt.

USA TODAY has reached out to their attorney and the Manhattan District Attorney's Office.

In body camera video shared by police, officers were seen climbing up to reach the couple.

"You can't be up here," one officer told them.

News outlets including ABC 7 and CNN reported that the couple appeared in court on July 2 and were given supervised release. They are due back in court on Aug. 24, the outlets reported.

Nikolau and Beerkus were seen kissing after leaving court on July 2.

Contributing: Natalie Neysa Alund, Ralphie Aversa and Michael Loria

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Couple that climbed Empire State Building is released after court

Reporting by Jeanine Santucci, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

This story was originally published July 2, 2026 at 12:53 PM.