“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.”

“This unprovoked, hate-driven assault in a busy transit station and popular tourist destination, is just one of the many examples of egregious hate crimes we’re currently prosecuting in Manhattan,” said DA Bragg.

“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.”