The New York Police Department (NYPD) is currently investigating the assault of two boys, aged 11 and 13, in Brooklyn as a potential hate crime. The incident, which occurred near Franklin and Myrtle avenues in Bed-Stuy, has sparked concerns over the safety of minority groups in the area.

Details of the Assault

According to police reports, the victims, both wearing religious attire, were playing on a public sidewalk when a man rode past them on a bicycle and made a statement. The individual later returned, dismounted his bicycle, and proceeded to physically assault the boys. The 13-year-old was pushed to the ground, while the 11-year-old was kicked and punched in the back.

The assailant quickly fled the scene on his bicycle, heading southbound on Franklin Avenue toward Willoughby Avenue. Both boys, identified as Orthodox Jewish, sustained minor head injuries as a result of the attack.

Suspect Description and Appeal for Information

The NYPD has provided a description of the suspect as a man with a medium complexion, approximately 18 to 20 years old. He was last seen wearing a black jacket, a black and white striped shirt, light blue jeans, and white sneakers with stripes. Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the incident or the whereabouts of the perpetrator to come forward and contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).

Rise in Hate Crimes

This incident comes amidst a concerning trend of hate crimes in New York City, particularly those targeting Jewish and Muslim populations. According to April crime statistics released by the NYPD, hate crimes in total have increased by 39% compared to previous periods. Notably, hate crimes against Jewish and Muslim communities have doubled, reflecting a worrying escalation in targeted violence.

The NYPD has acknowledged that these spikes in hate crimes are not unrelated to current geopolitics, suggesting potential connections to global events and political tensions influencing local communities.

NYC Crime Statistics: April Overview

The recent assault adds to the broader conversation about public safety in New York City. The NYPD regularly releases crime statistics to provide insights into trends and patterns affecting the city’s residents. These statistics encompass various categories of crime, including murder, felony assault, and subway incidents.

The release of crime rate data serves as a crucial tool for assessing the effectiveness of law enforcement strategies and informing community initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety.

In conclusion, the assault of two boys in Brooklyn underscores the importance of addressing hate crimes and fostering inclusivity within diverse communities. As investigations continue, authorities urge vigilance and cooperation from the public in combating such acts of violence.

For the latest updates and alerts on local news stories, download The Local News App to your mobile device.

Source