Posted on July 27, 2010

Victim in Latest Alleged S.I. Bias Attack Speaks Out

Joe Malvasio, New York One, July 27, 2010

As police on Staten Island continue to investigate a string of bias attacks in Port Richmond, the latest victim is speaking out exclusively to NY1.

The 40-year-old Mexican man says he was attacked Friday night after walking home from Faber Park.

He says he was beaten by five men who yelled anti-Mexican comments and made off with his backpack.

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The victim, who has lived in the country for more than five years, says he does remember bits and pieces of the moments leading up to the attack. He says he had just finished up a soccer match at the park and was simply heading home when he was approached by a group of young black men.

He says the attack was part of a pattern that needs to be stopped.

“We came here to work and they are always waiting for the moment when we are a little bit drunk or when we get off to work to assault us,” said the victim.

This is at least the sixth violent incident that has taken place in the neighborhood since April, and community leaders are urging residents to remain alert.

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Police say they are looking for five suspects in this latest case, which is being investigated as a hate crime.

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There is also a phone number for the Mexican consulate that is being handed out to immigrants who may otherwise be concerned about speaking directly to authorities. That number is 1-800-724-7264.