“People of all backgrounds deserve to feel safe, which is why my Office is enhancing these prosecutions through the expansion of the Hate Crimes Unit,” said District Attorney Bragg.

“The subway is central to our city, and riders of all backgrounds deserve safety when they travel,” said District Attorney Bragg. “The rise of bias-driven crimes is unacceptable.”

“This group of individuals was viciously attacked simply because they were Turkish. Nobody should feel unsafe sitting outside and speaking in their native language,” said District Attorney Bragg.

“Hate-driven violence and slurs have no place in New York,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Disturbingly, this alleged hate crime was just one in a wave of recent anti-Asian attacks. I want our AAPI neighbors to know that the Manhattan D.A.’s Office is here for you, and we are committed to your safety.”

“This egregious hate incident against two Black men further demonstrates the hate crimes epidemic we are facing in our City, and highlights the need for urgent action to address the trauma many communities are facing,” said DA Bragg. “If you have been a victim or witness to a hate crime or bias incident, please call our Hate Crimes Hotline at 212-335-3100.”