The New York Police Department (NYPD) is currently searching for a suspect who engaged in a hateful act of antisemitism towards a 65-year-old man on the Upper East Side last month. The incident occurred around 4:10 p.m. on July 27 near 5th Avenue and East 68th Street when the suspect directed derogatory comments at the victim before spitting on his face. The perpetrator then forcibly removed the victim’s face mask before fleeing towards Madison Avenue on foot.
Authorities have classified this appalling incident as a hate crime and are actively investigating the matter. Surveillance footage released by the NYPD depicts the suspect as a man wearing a black hat and sunglasses, carrying bags and two water bottles around his neck. He was also dressed in black pants and a multicolored shirt at the time of the offense.
Individuals who may have any information regarding the suspect or the incident are urged to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). Spanish speakers can call 1-888-57-PISTA to provide any relevant details that could assist in the investigation.
It is crucial to denounce and combat acts of hate and discrimination in our communities, and the NYPD is committed to holding perpetrators of such despicable acts accountable for their actions. By working together and standing against intolerance, we can create a safer and more inclusive society for all.