“The people of this state were saddened and sickened by the senseless violent assault and subsequent mugging of two elderly women, who were obviously targeted because their attacker believed that they were easy prey and would be unable to defend themselves,” Senator Robach said. “I am proud to support the passage of this legislation in the Senate which increases the penalties for violent attacks against the elderly. My goal is to protect every citizen in this state, especially our seniors and those viewed as more vulnerable, so they can feel safe walking in their own neighborhoods.”
While the assailant in these two cases could face robbery charges, under current law he would only face a misdemeanor charge for his physical attacks on the two elderly women. In addition, under current law, the penalties for the physical attack on the 101-year-old woman are the same penalties that would exist if the victim had been a 25-year-old football player.
“Violent criminals believe that a senior citizen is easy prey,” stated Arlene Pink, Secretary of the Greece Senior Council, a volunteer group that advises the town on issues affecting seniors. “I want to thank Senator Robach for his efforts to protect our seniors by increasing the penalties against those who attack and injure older adults who may not be able to physically defend themselves.”
Queens, the attacker could also face additional charges associated with the theft of property.