Senator Grisanti To Co-Sponsor "Knockout Game" Legislation

The proposed bill, known as the “Knockout Game Deterrent Act,” would ensure that those convicted would receive up to 25 years in prison, regardless of their age, for sucker-punching and assaulting innocent bystanders.

Sen. Grisanti, who is the first senator from Western New York to co-sponsor this legislation, and is joining Senator Hugh Farley and Assemblyman Jim Tedisco in pushing the bill to combat the growing epidemic of what is being called on the streets “The Knockout Game,” with gangs of thugs in New York and throughout other parts of the country participating in dangerous attacks that have resulted in several cases of serious injury and in some instances even death.

“I find it absolutely appalling that anyone would engage in this type of vicious behavior,” said Sen. Grisanti. “We must send a clear message to anyone who has participated or has even thought of doing this that we will not tolerate these acts of violence. For those who do decide to attack the innocent, this legislation would guarantee serious repercussions for anyone involved.”

The legislation will make any person regardless of their age who is arrested and convicted of individual assault or gang assault by participating in a “Knockout Game” attack will be subject to 25 years in prison and that all juveniles will be sentenced as adults. The bill also calls for anyone who witnesses and takes part in these types of assaults to be held criminally responsible.

“Cowardly assaults on the innocent is despicable,” said Sen. Grisanti. “This legislation is a step in the right direction of protecting the public from being assaulted by individuals who are acting irresponsibly as violent predators. Anyone who represents themselves as a danger to society must face the repercussions of their actions.”

To access a recent news story about the Knockout Game, click on this link:http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/nyc-crime/elderly-woman-city-10th-knockout-game-victim-article-1.1532989