Attacker of elderly Filipino woman in NY gets 15 years

NEW YORK — A New York court has handed down a 15-year sentence to the individual who attacked an elderly Filipino woman on 43rd Street on the West Side of Manhattan in March 2021.

Brandon Elliot, 41, returned to state prison after pleading guilty to one count of assault in the first degree as a hate crime and one count of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree.

On midday of March 29, 2021, Elliot assaulted 65-year-old Vilma Kari who was then on her way to church.

According to court records, Elliot initially told Kari, “You don’t belong here,” before pushing her to the ground and repeatedly kicking her head and body.

Elliot, who was homeless and on parole, had previously served 20 years in prison for killing his own mother. He was arrested at his New York City residence on March 30, 2021.

Elliot’s lawyer, Jamie Niskanen-Singer, claimed that her client was remorseful and cited mental health issues as reason behind his attack on Kari.

In a press release, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg stated that Elliot targeted the victim because of her Filipino ethnicity.

Kari personally faced Elliot in the New York court where Judge Maxwell Wiley sentenced him.

Kari stated that while she has forgiven Elliot, she believes he must face the consequences of his actions. She called on lawmakers in New York to enact stronger laws to assist individuals like Elliot who struggle with mental health issues.

“Of course, our justice system calls for whatever prison sentence is allowed for that crime he committed. I felt a sense of relief because I seek closure and wish to see him again,” she said.

Kari urged other victims of hate crimes to remain hopeful as she emphasized the importance of justice. She advocated for comprehensive rehabilitation programs for incarcerated individuals with mental health issues to ensure their well-being during their time in prison. 

“For those who were impacted by a crime like mine, a hate crime, I want to say: just wait, there’s justice. Don’t lose hope. I hope to see justice served before any victim is paroled, especially for those who have mental health issues. They should truly be given the opportunity to heal while in prison, receiving whatever tests, medicines, and rehabilitation they need. That’s what I would suggest our legislators do something about,” Kari said. —KBK, GMA Integrated News