Senator Smith Co-Sponsors Anti-Knockout Legislation

(Albany, NY) - State Senator Malcolm A. Smith (D-Hollis) co-sponsored legislation aimed at ending  "knockout," a game in which perpetrators sneak up on their unsuspecting victims and brutally punch them with the intent of knocking them unconscious.

The Knockout Assault Deterrent Act would raise the penalty for individual or gang assault to a class B felony, carrying a maximum of 25 years in prison. The legislation would also ensure that minors age 14 and up who are convicted of knockout game assault, are sentenced as adults. 

Several people have been injured and even killed nationwide, including in New York State, by attacks believed to be knockout related.

"These sick and vicious attacks need to stop, and I hope this legislation, which imposes stricter punishment on perpetrators, will be a step towards achieving that goal," Smith said. "It is inconceivable to me how injuring an innocent human being could be considered a fun game by anyone. We need to raise awareness and let everyone, especially our youth, know that this is wrong and it will not be tolerated."