"Queens County is the most diverse county in the nation," Brown said. "It is home to many races and nationalities. Crimes motivated by bias, particularly those involving violence, will never be tolerated in this county."
Brown identified the defendant as 36-year-old David Wood, of 76-52 263rd Street in Floral Park.
Wood was arraigned Wednesday night before Queens Criminal Court Judge Gene Lopez on charges of second-degree assault as a hate crime, second- and third-degree assault and second-degree aggravated harassment. Wood, who faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted, was ordered held on $10,000 bail and to return to court on January 30, 2008.
According to the charges, 63-year-old Chadha Bajeet had parked his car in front of 222-34 95th Avenue in New Hyde Park on Monday, January 14, and was about to enter his place of worship when Wood began yelling profanities and making statements. He is accused of saying, "Arab, go back to your country."
Wood then allegedly approached Bajeet and stated, "You don't listen," and then punched him in the face, breaking his nose and jaw.
According to the complaint, Bajeet is scheduled to undergo surgery for repair of his nose and will require further medical consultation about his jaw once the swelling goes down. He is presently required to be on a strict liquid diet.
