South Florida Man Sentenced for Hate Crime Attack on U.S. Postal Service Worker
A South Florida man, Kenneth Jerome Pinkney, has been sentenced for a hate crime attack on a U.S. Postal Service worker in 2023. Pinkney, 47, of Fort Lauderdale, pleaded guilty to assault charges, including aggravated hate crime, and was sentenced to 37 months in prison by a U.S. District Judge.
Details of the Attack
The attack took place on October 24, 2023, in Wilton Manor as the postal worker was delivering mail. Pinkney approached the victim on his bicycle, made threatening gestures, and hurled insults at her. Despite trying to ignore Pinkney, the victim was physically assaulted when he reached into the USPS truck, grabbed her neck, and pulled off her hood. The victim, fearing for her safety, exited the vehicle, but Pinkney continued to harass her with derogatory remarks.
Response from Officials
Authorities emphasized the severity of hate crimes and the importance of ensuring the safety of all individuals, including federal employees. Michael Davis, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, condemned the attack, stating that no one should be targeted based on their religious beliefs. Jeffrey B. Veltri, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s Miami field office, highlighted the unacceptability of targeting individuals for their religious beliefs and emphasized the victim’s right to carry out her duties without fear.
In conclusion, the sentencing of Kenneth Jerome Pinkney sends a strong message that hate crimes will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions. It is essential to promote a society where diversity is celebrated, and individuals can carry out their responsibilities without the fear of being targeted based on their identity. The victim in this case showed immense courage in the face of adversity, and it is crucial for authorities to continue to uphold justice and protect the rights of all individuals.
