Res. No. 801
Resolution calling upon the New York State Legislature to pass legislation to increase penalties for physical assaults on the elderly.
By Council Members Baez, Vallone Jr., Sears, Avella, Brewer, Comrie, Dickens, Fidler, Gentile, Gonzalez, James, Mark-Viverito, Nelson, Palma, Recchia Jr., Sanders Jr., Vann, Weprin, White Jr., Liu and Gerson
Whereas, The elderly are among the most vulnerable members of our society and deserve special protection; and
Whereas, The recent attack on a 101-year-old Queens woman who was viciously assaulted in the lobby of her residence brought attention to the serious matter of crime against the elderly; and
Whereas, Under current New York State Law, the assailant in this vicious assault on a 101-year-old woman would face only a misdemeanor charge; and
Whereas, Persons who assault vulnerable members of society, such as children or the elderly, should face harsher criminal penalties; and
Whereas, Criminals who assault children face harsher criminal penalties; and
Whereas, Under current New York State Law, physical attacks on elderly persons are treated as Class A misdemeanor offenses, with a penalty of up to one year in prison; and
Whereas, The New York State Legislature currently has before it a bill (S3684/A7088) that would make an assault on a person over seventy either a Class D violent felony, punishable by up to seven years in prison, or a Class E felony, punishable by up to four years in prison; and
Whereas, Enactment of this law would signify society’s interest in protecting its most vulnerable members; and
Whereas, Enactment of this law would effectively set a standard and send a message that violence against the elderly is not acceptable and will not be tolerated; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the New York State Legislature to pass legislation to increase penalties for physical assaults on the elderly.
LS# 2775
SH
3/23/07