– Suspected hate crime punch student Bellingham
– Man hate crime assault student Bellingham.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
A 42-year-old man from Bellingham, Washington, is currently in custody on a $500,000 bond after being charged with 2nd-degree assault and committing a hate crime against an 11-year-old boy. The incident took place on June 12th in downtown Bellingham while the boy was on a field trip with his school group.
According to court documents, the man, identified as Paul Bittner, joined the group of students as they were walking back to their school on Grand Avenue. Witnesses stated that Bittner suddenly struck the young boy in the face with a closed fist and then pushed him, making racially charged remarks.
Police officers from the Bellingham Police Department responded to the scene and apprehended Bittner a short distance away on Prospect Street. While in custody, Bittner allegedly made derogatory comments and references to assaulting African Americans.
Bittner now faces felony charges of committing a hate crime and assaulting a child. During a preliminary court appearance on June 13th, prosecutors requested a bail of $1 million, but the court set it at $500,000. Despite the prosecution’s efforts to increase the bail amount, it remains at $500,000.
As of June 22nd, Bittner remains in the Whatcom County Jail awaiting trial.
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Impact on the Community
The assault and hate crime have sparked outrage in the Bellingham community, with many residents expressing their shock and disgust at the incident. Local leaders have condemned the attack and emphasized the need for unity and tolerance in the community.
Legal Proceedings
The upcoming trial will be closely watched by community members and advocacy groups, who are calling for justice to be served in this case. The prosecution is expected to present a strong case against Bittner, highlighting the severity of the charges he is facing.
Support for the Victim
Efforts are being made to support the young boy who was the victim of this heinous attack. Counseling services and community support programs have been made available to him and his family to help them cope with the trauma of the incident.
Conclusion
The assault on the 11-year-old boy in Bellingham has shocked and saddened the community, highlighting the ongoing issues of hate and discrimination. As the case moves forward, the community is coming together to stand against such acts of violence and ensure that justice is served.
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– Man suspected of hate crime after punching student in Bellingham
– Suspected hate crime punch student Bellingham.
