On Saturday, February 8, 2025, an 11-year-old girl was assaulted in South Williamsburg in what authorities are investigating as a hate crime. The incident occurred around 4:48 p.m. near the intersection of Gerry Street and Harrison Avenue. The young victim, dressed in traditional Jewish attire, was approached from behind by an unidentified individual who pulled her hair and dragged her to the ground. The assailant then fled the scene.
The New York Police Department’s Hate Crime Task Force is leading the investigation. The victim sustained minor injuries but declined medical attention at the scene.
Authorities have released surveillance footage capturing the incident in hopes of identifying the suspect. The video shows the attacker, described as a young individual, approaching the girl from behind and committing the assault before fleeing.
Community leaders and local officials have expressed outrage over the attack. “This despicable act of violence against a young member of our community is unacceptable,” said a representative from a local advocacy group. “We stand in solidarity with the victim and her family and call for swift justice.”
The NYPD is urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or, for Spanish speakers, at 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Information can also be submitted online at the NYPD Crime Stoppers website or via Twitter @NYPDTips.
This incident adds to a concerning pattern of hate crimes in the city. According to the New York City Police Department’s Hate Crime Dashboard, there has been an uptick in reported hate crimes over the past year, with antisemitic incidents comprising a significant portion of these cases.
In response to the rise in hate crimes, the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office has emphasized its commitment to prosecuting such offences vigorously. “Hate crimes are an attack on the core values of our society,” said District Attorney Eric Gonzalez in a recent statement. “We will hold perpetrators accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
Community organizations are also mobilizing to support the victim and address broader concerns about safety and tolerance. Local advocacy groups are planning a solidarity rally in South Williamsburg to condemn the attack and promote unity. Details about the event will be shared as they become available.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities. The NYPD has increased patrols in the area and is working closely with community leaders to ensure the safety of all residents.
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that the perpetrator will be apprehended swiftly. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of standing against hate in all its forms and fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.
For more information on hate crime prevention and resources, individuals can visit the U.S. Department of Justice’s Hate Crimes website or the New York State Division of Human Rights.
The NYPD continues to investigate the incident and urges anyone with information to come forward. Community members are reminded that even small details can be crucial in solving cases and bringing perpetrators to justice.
In the wake of this troubling event, Brooklyn’s diverse communities are coming together to reaffirm their commitment to mutual respect and safety for all residents. The assault on this young girl has not only highlighted the challenges that remain but also the resilience and solidarity of the community in the face of adversity.
As the search for the suspect continues, authorities and community leaders alike are calling for unity and vigilance. The collective response underscores a shared determination to prevent such incidents and uphold the values of diversity and inclusion that define Brooklyn.
The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available. In the meantime, the community’s support for the victim and commitment to justice remains steadfast.
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