The city is facing a $100 million lawsuit from a family who was attacked during a fifth-grade graduation ceremony in Brooklyn that escalated into a full-blown brawl.
The incident occurred on June 14 at approximately 10:45 a.m. at PS 682 in Gravesend.
During the ceremony, a student walked across the stage with a graduation cap that read “Free Palestine” and held a Palestinian flag while Lerner’s twin boys were also participating in the event.
As the time came to capture some photographs, Lerner’s family found themselves standing next to the other student’s family. Unfortunately, the tension only seemed to increase as more words were exchanged between the two groups.
According to Lerner, despite her husband’s attempts to diffuse the situation, a man from the opposing family suddenly punched him in the face and went on to assault their teenage son.
By the time two teachers intervened, the altercation had already caused significant harm.
Lerner shared that amidst the joyous singing and beautiful videos at their fifth-grade graduation, an unfortunate incident occurred. “Now, regrettably, my children will always associate their graduation day with the day their family was attacked, rather than a day of celebration,” Lerner lamented.
Authorities have apprehended and accused 26-year-old Ez-Al Dean Bazar of committing assault.
Attorney Sanford Rubenstein is urging the district attorney’s office to charge the individual arrested in this case with a hate crime. He also implores them to thoroughly investigate the involvement of any other individuals. “When they make a determination with regard to the charges, they charge this as a hate crime and also carefully look at the involvement of others here as well as the one individual who was arrested,” emphasized Rubenstein.
According to a statement released by the NYC Department of Education, they are currently conducting an investigation.
We condemn any act of violence or aggression during graduation ceremonies, as these are meant to be joyous occasions for celebration. Based on reports from several witnesses, both families involved in the incident displayed aggressive behavior. However, we are currently conducting an investigation and working closely with the families to find a resolution.
The education department has a policy regarding graduation attire. According to the policy, any political statement or activity that can cause disruption is strictly prohibited.
