Unprovoked attack on rabbi leads to hate crime indictment
FOREST HILLS, QUEENS — A daytime walk to a synagogue turned violent when a rabbi was allegedly targeted and assaulted in what prosecutors describe as a hate crime.
The attack happened on Tuesday, January 27 near Queens Boulevard and Yellowstone Boulevard, where the victim — a 30-year-old rabbi — was walking while wearing visible religious garments.
According to prosecutors, the suspect approached the victim and shouted an antisemitic slur before striking him.
Authorities allege the man punched the rabbi in the face and chest, knocking him to the ground in what was described as an unprovoked attack.
The incident occurred on International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
The suspect, identified as Eric Zafra Grosso, 32, of Corona, was later indicted on charges including assault as a hate crime, assault and aggravated harassment.
Officials said he initially failed to appear for a scheduled court date, leading to a warrant for his arrest.
He was later taken into custody in Manhattan and remains held as the case proceeds.
If convicted on the top charge, he faces up to four years in prison.
Prosecutors say the case highlights ongoing concerns surrounding antisemitic incidents in the city.
Key Points
- Suspect accused of antisemitic slur before assault
- Rabbi punched and knocked to ground in unprovoked attack
- Defendant indicted on hate crime charges and in custody