Legal Question in Discrimination Law in New York
Police negligence?
Hi,
My friend lives in NYC, and he and a friend were recently assaulted (punched in the face) by a couple of guys who were harassing them and yelling obscenities because they are gay. They called 911 after it was over and explained to the dispatcher what happened. The police showed up, but they just rolled down the window and looked at them and kept on driving. So, my friend and his friend called a car service and went home. Now my friend is worried because he feels like no one will help him if this happens again. He wanted to give a statement to police so maybe they could catch the guys, but they didn't even stop the car. Does he have any recourse? Are the police required to stop and talk to you or take a statement? For all they know, he could have needed medical attention. (He ended up just being bruised and swollen). This might be related to them being gay or that my friend is Indian but could be mistaken for Middle Eastern.
Thanks!
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Police negligence?
I am not sure why this question is on a California site.
Re: Police negligence?
A couple of things to consider... any suit against the city has a very limited time frame and MUST be brought VERY quickly (usually within 90 days of the event)... If this is the case, have your friend contact my office directly if he is interested in continuing on with this, my officem ay be able to take on such a case on contingency (meaning no out of pocket expenses) BUT if interested have him contact us ASAP!
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