NYPD seeks information on man suspected of spitting on Jewish boy in Brooklyn hate crime.

Authorities have released images of a suspect involved in a suspected hate crime against a 14-year-old boy in Brooklyn. The incident occurred on October 22, 2023, around 5:50 p.m. at the intersection of Eastern Parkway and Albany Avenue in the Crown Heights neighborhood.

The alleged assailant, described as a light-skinned Black male in his 30s, approached the victim from behind while riding a bicycle. Without any provocation or verbal exchange, he spat on the teenager, targeting the boy’s black hat, which is traditionally worn as part of his Hasidic attire. Following the assault, the suspect continued to pedal away in a westward direction along Eastern Parkway. Fortunately, the boy did not sustain any physical injuries from the encounter.

The incident has drawn the attention of the NYPD Hate Crime Task Force, which is actively investigating the case. The authorities have emphasized the need for public assistance in identifying the suspect, who was last seen donning a multicolored jacket, blue jeans, and black sunglasses.

Following the incident, the boy returned home to inform his mother, who subsequently reached out to her own mother, Devorah Halberstam. Halberstam became an outspoken advocate against anti-Semitism after her son, Ari Halberstam, was murdered in a 1994 hate-fueled attack. Halberstam now sits on a civilian panel that assists the NYPD in evaluating hate crime incidents.

In light of the recent attack, Halberstam expressed concern over the persistence of anti-Semitism in society. She noted that while it is an unfortunate reality, the family remains vigilant against such acts of hate. The grandmother highlighted the emotional impact of the assault on her grandson, suggesting that he felt targeted specifically for his identity as a Hasidic Jew.

The New York City Police Department has urged anyone with relevant information regarding this incident to contact the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). The ongoing investigation aims not only to bring the perpetrator to justice but also to reinforce community awareness regarding rising incidents of hate crimes. As the dialogue surrounding anti-Semitism gains traction, advocates like Halberstam continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance and action in combating hatred and intolerance.