ICYMI: New York Woman Faces Hate Crime Charges for Attack on Uber Driver in Manhattan
A New York woman faces hate crime charges after allegedly attacking a Muslim Uber driver with pepper spray while he prayed. đ #News #NewYorkNY #NewYork #Crime
NEW YORK, NY – In an alarming incident of alleged hate-fueled violence, a New York woman has been charged after reportedly pepper-spraying a Muslim Uber driver who had begun praying. The Manhattan District Attorneyâs Office shared that Jennifer Guilbeault, 23, now faces multiple hate crime charges related to the July 31 attack.
Alleged Hate Crime on Manhattanâs Upper East Side
The confrontation unfolded on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, near the busy Central Park area at East 65th Street and Lexington Avenue.
According to court documents, Guilbeault allegedly leaned toward the front of the Uber driverâs seat and sprayed him directly in the face as he started his prayer, resulting in serious pain and burning sensations.
The 45-year-old driver, later identified by local media as Shohel Mahmud, called 911 following the attack, leading to Guilbeaultâs arrest.
Charges and Legal Proceedings Moving Forward
The driver was reportedly carrying out a simple religious practice when he was assaulted, highlighting the everyday risks faced by individuals performing basic, personal rituals.
Guilbeault has since been charged with several counts, including Second- and Third-Degree Assault as Hate Crimes, as well as Aggravated Harassment.
New York’s Stance Against Hate Crimes
Authorities have expressed firm disapproval of the attack, pointing to the hardworking nature of the victim, a New Yorker simply going about his job. Law enforcement underscored the districtâs dedication to ensuring that residents feel secure in their identities, free from harassment.
As this case moves forward, Guilbeault is expected to appear in court again in January. The incident is yet another indicator of the continued focus on prosecuting hate crimes in New York City, where every individual should feel able to live and work without fear.
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