Statement by Senator Thomas K. Duane RE: Alleged Anti-Gay Bias Attack

RE: Alleged Anti-Gay Bias Attack

“On Sunday morning, my office was alerted to an apparently homophobic bias attack that occurred early Saturday morning on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.  The victim, Joseph Holladay, a former New York City resident visiting a friend, was beaten outside of an apartment building allegedly by a group of men who shouted anti-gay slurs.  He was hospitalized and is now recovering from the serious injuries he received.  As of today, I am able to report that Mr. Holladay's case has been referred to the New York City Police Department's Hate Crimes Task Force for further investigation.”

“I am deeply disturbed by this attack. Hate and prejudice of any kind are unacceptable in New York City or anywhere and there is a heightened injustice that this apparently anti-gay incident occurred during Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Week, a time of celebration for the LGBT community.  My office is working with other elected officials as well as the New York City Anti-Violence Project, the NYPD's LGBT liaison Tim Duffy and the 19th Precinct to ensure that those who are responsible for this attack are brought to justice.” 

“I want to thank those witnesses who have already come forward and ask others who witnessed this violent act to call 1-800-577-TIPS with any pertinent information.”

###