“These defendants violently targeted and assaulted another individual simply because he is Jewish,” said District Attorney Bragg. “While this Office will always support the right to peacefully protest and engage in open dialogue, these multi-year prison sentences make clear that physically attacking someone because of their religion is never acceptable. I thank our Hate Crimes Unit for its diligent work in this case.”   

“Brandon Elliot brutally and repeatedly assaulted a 65-year-old mother in a hate-fueled attack that shook our city,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Everyone deserves to be safe and know they belong here, regardless of who they are. Anyone who commits acts of violence driven by hate will be prosecuted. If you have been a victim or witness to a hate crime or bias incident, please call our Office at 212-335-3100.”

“As alleged, Yehia Amin taunted and punched a tourist after stalking his friends and going on a vile antisemitic tirade that spanned several minutes,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Violence stemming from hate and discrimination will not be tolerated in Manhattan. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to hold those that cause harm accountable to ensure Manhattan is a safe place for everyone.”

“Hate crimes have profound physical, emotional and psychological effects that jeopardize the safety of New Yorkers and tear at the fabric of our communities,” said District Attorney Bragg. “This legislation will strengthen our laws to reflect a clearer and better understanding of what constitutes a hate crime and give us more tools to bring hate crimes charges in the broad range of cases we see in our practice. I am proud to stand together with Senator Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Lee to combat discrimination and hate and I thank them for their work on this bill.”