Philadelphia, PA, September 24, 2014…The Anti-Defamation League today condemned the attack of a Newark-area man targeted because of his neurodevelopmental disorder by three Delaware teenagers, and called for long-term solutions to address bias and bullying in the community.
The teens were initially charged with offensive touching, assault of a vulnerable adult and conspiracy in the third degree. They are now charged with a hate crime, crime against a vulnerable adult, abuse of an impaired adult and other related offenses.
Joshua Cohen, Associate Regional Director, released the following statement:
“We condemn this despicable bias-motivated attack. Hate crimes have an impact far beyond the individual victim of the crime. When a victim is chosen because of their disability, other members of that group feel unsafe and unwelcome. Law enforcement’s response to this crime helps to send a clear message that hate crimes will not be tolerated. The perpetrators’ ages makes this assault even more egregious. We strongly encourage community leaders, schools, and parents to use this incident as a way to develop long-term solutions for creating and maintaining a positive climate in the community and beyond.
A leader in the development of anti-bullying and anti-cyberbullying training, curriculum and resources for youth, educators, youth providers and adult family members, the League provides schools and communities with tools and resources for combating bias, bullying and hatred.
The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.