A 23-year-old woman, Jennifer Guilbeault, has been indicted on hate crime charges for allegedly pepper-spraying a Muslim Uber driver while he was praying in Arabic, CNN reports.
The incident occurred on July 31st in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, near Central Park.
According to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, Guilbeault allegedly lunged forward toward the driver’s seat and sprayed his face with pepper spray as he began praying, causing pain and burning sensations. The victim, identified by CNN affiliate WABC as Shohel Mahmud, subsequently called 911 and Guilbeault was arrested.
“As alleged, Jennifer Guilbeault senselessly assaulted a Muslim Uber driver while he was just doing his job,” stated Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. “The victim is a hardworking New Yorker who should not have to face this type of hate because of his identity. Everyone is welcome to live and work in Manhattan.”
Guilbeault faces multiple charges, including:
• Assault in the Second Degree as a Hate Crime
• Assault in the Third Degree as a Hate Crime
• Aggravated Harassment in the Second Degree
She is scheduled to appear in court in January. Her attorney, Michael J. Alber, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
