An unidentified man allegedly punched an 80-year-old veteran in the face outside the veteran’s Orlando home on Monday, leaving neighbors rattled and police digging into whether bias played a role. The victim, described in early reports only by his age and veteran status, was hit in front of his residence, and officials have not released his name or any further medical details. Detectives say they are reviewing video and witness statements as they work to understand what led up to the attack.
According to a brief bulletin aired May 11 by FOX 35 Orlando, investigators determined the assault happened outside the man’s home and said it “could be a hate crime.” The station’s segment offered few additional details and did not identify the suspect or the veteran by name.
Police Probe Possible Hate Motive
Under Orlando Police Department policy, officers must first establish that a criminal act occurred and then determine that the act was motivated by prejudice before classifying it as a hate crime. The policy lists “advanced age” as one of the protected personal characteristics, according to the Orlando Police Department. That means detectives will be looking for any statements, witness accounts, or physical evidence that suggest the attack targeted the victim because of his age or another protected trait.
How State Law Treats Bias-Motivated Crimes…