Myles Utz, a 31-year-old man, was indicted for allegedly attacking two Jewish men on the Upper West Side in June. The attacks involved throwing glass bottles at a 25-year-old man and spitting on a 74-year-old man while yelling “Free Palestine.” The incidents took place on West 86th Street and Amsterdam Avenue. Video footage captured Utz charging at the older man and spitting on him, despite attempts by bystanders to intervene. Utz was arrested on July 25 and charged with attempted assault in the second degree as a hate crime, criminal possession of a weapon, and second-degree aggravated harassment.
Despite the serious nature of the charges, none of them were bail-eligible, and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office requested supervised release for Utz. Judge Laura Ward granted this request, ordering Utz to stay away from the victims. Utz’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 13. An emphasis was placed on holding individuals accountable for hate-based acts of violence in Manhattan, with District Attorney Alvin Bragg stating that such conduct is unacceptable. He urged anyone who believes they have been a victim of a hate crime to report it to the Hate Crimes Unit.
The video footage of the attacks sparked outrage as bystanders attempted to protect the victims from further harm. One individual questioned Utz’s actions, asking how he was “freeing Palestine” by harassing people. Despite not having prior arrests in New York City, Utz’s alleged anti-Semitic behavior highlighted the increased threats and acts of violence against the Jewish community. Authorities are working closely with law enforcement partners to address hate-based crimes and hold perpetrators accountable. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office emphasized the importance of reporting hate crimes and urged victims to seek assistance through 911 or the Hate Crimes Unit.
The incidents involving Utz attacking two Jewish men minutes apart underscored the severity of hate-based violence and the need for accountability. The attacks, which occurred in a public area on the Upper West Side, caused concern among residents and law enforcement officials. Efforts to address hate crimes in Manhattan are ongoing, with a focus on providing support to victims and ensuring that perpetrators are prosecuted. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office is committed to working closely with law enforcement partners to address hate-based acts of violence and ensure the safety of all residents.
The nature of the attacks, which included anti-Semitic slurs and physical aggression, raised alarm within the community and prompted calls for increased vigilance against hate crimes. The incidents served as a reminder of the continued threats faced by marginalized communities, particularly the Jewish population in Manhattan. Authorities emphasized the importance of reporting hate crimes and taking proactive measures to prevent further incidents of violence. By holding individuals like Utz accountable for their actions, law enforcement aims to send a message that hate-based behavior will not be tolerated in the city.
The response to Utz’s alleged attacks, including his indictment and subsequent release on supervised release, highlighted the complexities of addressing hate crimes in a legal context. While efforts are being made to prosecute individuals responsible for hate-based violence, challenges remain in ensuring that justice is served and victims are protected. The incidents involving Utz underscored the need for continued education, advocacy, and community support to combat hate crimes and promote inclusivity and tolerance in Manhattan. By working together with law enforcement and community members, authorities can strive to create a safer and more welcoming environment for all residents, free from discrimination and prejudice.
