The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today reacted to the murder of a Queens man who was stabbed to death near Elmhurst and Roosevelt Avenue because, police believe, his attacker thought he was gay.

 

The League condemned the deadly anti-gay attack as “tragic and appalling.”  Steven Torres, 22, allegedly attacked Ever Orozco, 69, on September 16 while yelling anti-gay epithets. The New York Police Department today announced that Torres was charged with second-degree murder as a hate crime for the murder of Orozco.  Torres is also being charged with assault as a hate crime for stabbing a different man last on September 12 on the Lower East Side.

 

Evan R. Bernstein, ADL New York Regional Director, issued the following statement:

 

“It is deeply troubling to learn about this tragic and appalling attack on Mr. Orozco.  Individuals must never be targeted for violence because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation and it is our job as a community to continue taking a stand and speak out against these horrific senseless acts of violence.

 

This is the fourth homicide this year in New York City due to hate – three of which were motivated by bias against LBGT people.  It is disturbing that these types of heinous crimes still take place even in New York City.  Hate crimes affect not only the victim but reverberate throughout the entire community.  When such incidents occur in our backyard, they warrant a priority response.

 

We commend the New York City Police Department and its Hate Crimes Task Force for their quick response in apprehending Mr. Torres and we look forward to seeing those responsible prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

 

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.  Follow us on Twitter @ADL_News.