phiggsbroadband...
 

is correct

you never cross a runway without clearance to do so. and you never cross a runway without verifying that there isn't traffic on the runway or on final for the runway (and just in case, you look at both POTENTIAL finals).

come to runway, look left, look right...advise other pilot condition...ie: RIGHT SIDE CLEAR, LEFT SIDE CLEAR, and we have a clearance to cross.

I understand both carribean pilots have been suspended *by airline* until investigation is complete

Having flown into and out of JFK many times over the years, I have found that the taxiway signage and markings could be confusing especially at night for those who are not familiar with the airport. I find that FAA's refusal to allow EFB users to use own aircraft position feature of the EFB while taxiing bewildering at the very least.