By Victoria Hsieh. Bay City News.
A man suspected of assault with a deadly weapon and elder abuse will now face hate crime charges against the AAPI community, according to the San Francisco District Attorney's Office.
Armando Sánchez Vázquez, 30, is suspected of assaulting three Asian-American individuals, one of whom is 73, in Dolores Park on January 30. During the assault, Sánchez Vázquez allegedly threw a brick and metal grate at the individuals.
The criminal complaint alleges that the individuals were targeted because of their race.
Vázquez is currently in custody.
He pleaded not guilty at his arraignment on February 1. His next court date is set for February 15, for a preliminary hearing.
If Vázquez is found guilty, he could be sentenced to 10 years in prison.
"I take seriously the concerns of our AAPI community, especially our seniors, and I want them and all of San Francisco to know that there will be responsibility and consequences for those who choose to engage in hate and violence," said District Attorney Brooke. Jenkins.
This publication was supported in whole or part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library.
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