“Ms. Ponsetto displayed outrageous behavior. As a Black man, I have personally experienced racial profiling countless times in my life and I sympathize with the young man victimized in this incident. This plea ensures appropriate accountability for Ms. Ponsetto by addressing underlying causes for her behavior and ensuring this conduct does not reoccur,” said District Attorney Bragg.

“New Yorkers of all backgrounds deserve to feel safe in Manhattan,” said District Attorney Bragg. “My Office’s expanded Hate Crimes Unit will not only investigate and prosecute hate crimes, but provide outreach and advocacy that helps victims heal and addresses root causes. Combatting hate crimes is a shared priority for my Office, the New York City Council, and the Mayor’s Office, and I’m hopeful we will receive the funding we need to combat the surge in hate crimes.”

“These commonsense fixes underscore that survivors of sex trafficking are survivors of sexual violence, and deserve the same protections under New York State law,” said District Attorney Bragg.

“This book was literally ripped from its original binding and sold for profit, and we are pleased to return it to where it rightfully belongs,” said District Attorney Bragg.

“In recent weeks, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has been repeatedly asked whether our investigation concerning former President Donald J. Trump, the Trump Organization, and its leadership is continuing. It is.”