PEEKSKILL, NY – Maria Coto, a 56-year-old social worker from Westchester, New York, was brutally attacked during a home visit on May 14th, leaving her battling for her life on life support. The assault, which took place in Peekskill, resulted in severe brain swelling, bleeding, and multiple facial fractures for Coto.
The suspect in the attack, Hasseem Jenkins, 31, has been apprehended by authorities who have charged him with attempted murder and assault with the intent to cause physical injury. Jenkins is alleged to have violently beaten Coto both with his fists and heavy boots. He has a record of previous arrests for assault and disorderly conduct.
Coto was taken to the Medical Center in Valhalla in critical condition, where she underwent immediate surgery.
The severity of the attack has brought increased attention to the dangers faced by social workers, prompting Westchester County Executive George Latimer to approve an emergency contract to increase security details for these community workers.
Coto’s union released a statement expressing their profound distress, calling the assault a “tragic reminder” of the significant risks their members face daily while providing vital community services. They stated this incident was the most severe attack on a social worker they’ve encountered to date.