NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — A Yonkers man was charged with a hate crime after violently attacking a 67-year-old Asian woman on Friday, the Westchester County District Attorney said Monday.
Tammel Esco, 42, attacked the victim as she was entering her apartment building in Yonkers just after 6 p.m., punching her in the head and knocking her to the ground, authorities said.
Esco then allegedly continued to punch the victim 125 times, stomped on her upper body multiple times and spit on her, according to the DA.
The attacker also called the woman an “Asian b—” just before the assault, officials said.
The victim was taken to a nearby hospital where she was treated for bleeding on the brain, multiple facial fractures, and bruising and lacerations to the head and face.
Authorities located the suspect outside the building and took him into custody without incident.
“Our hearts are broken for the victim. The District Attorney’s Office will continue to work with the Yonkers Police Department to investigate and secure justice for her and to support her and her family through this difficult time,” DA Miriam E. Rocah said. “We also understand that many in the community may experience fear and trauma as a result of this incident. We will continue our work with our community and government partners throughout the County to provide support for the community, by offering training and outreach on hate and bias offenses in local schools, senior centers and other community organizations.”
Mayor Mike Spano called the attack "heinous."
“Hate crimes are beyond intolerable in our city," Spano said. "I applaud our Yonkers Police for swiftly apprehending this violent criminal and removing him from our streets... I continue to keep the victim and her family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Commissioner John Mueller described the incident as “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," Mueller said. "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.”
Esco was charged with two felony hate crime counts of attempted murder and assault. He is scheduled to appear in Yonkers Criminal Court on March 25 and is currently being held without bail.
Anyone who has been a victim of a hate crime or bias incident, or has further information on this case, is being asked to call the District Attorney’s Office at (914) 995-TIPS.
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