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Suspect Charged With Attempted Murder, Hate Crime In Beating Of Asian American Woman
"This is one of the most appalling attacks I have ever seen," Yonkers Police Commissioner John J. Mueller said of the attack on the 67-year-old victim, which was captured on surveillance video.
Police arrested a 42-year-old Yonkers man for allegedly punching an elderly Asian American woman 125 times, kicking her and spitting on her as she tried to go into her home.
According to the Yonkers Police Department, the 67-year old resident was returning home on March 11 around 6:00 p.m. when she passed the suspect, Tammel Esco, right outside her building.
He called out “Asian b**ch” as she passed by, police said.
The victim ignored this comment and entered the building but, while she attempted to open the second, locked door, Esco allegedly approached her from behind and punched her in the head, knocking her to the ground.
Surveillance video allegedly then shows the suspect continuing to beat the victim after she is on the ground, punching her 125 times. Police say the suspect then stomped on the victim seven times and spat on her while she remained on the floor.
The victim suffered multiple lacerations and contusions to her head and face, bleeding on the brain and bone fractures, according to police.
She is currently in stable condition and recovering at a hospital.
"This is one of the most appalling attacks I have ever seen; to beat a helpless woman is despicable and targeting her because of her race makes it more so," said Yonkers Police Commissioner John J. Mueller.
"This defendant must be held to the maximum punishment allowed by law to send a clear message that hateful, violent behavior will not be tolerated in our communities."
Records show Esco has been booked into Westchester County Jail and charged with one count of attempted murder as a hate crime and one count of assault as a hate crime. He is not eligible for bail.
Esco is being represented by the Legal Aid Society of Westchester County, according to court records. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 15.
“Hate crimes are beyond intolerable in our city," Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano stated. "I applaud our Yonkers Police for swiftly apprehending this violent criminal and removing him from our streets."
“I expect the suspect to be charged to the fullest extent of the law for his heinous actions," he added. "I continue to keep the victim and her family in our thoughts and prayers.”
