Manhattan, New York — A Brooklyn man has been arrested months after police say he allegedly attacked a 12-year-old boy near a Lower East Side playground while directing anti-gay slurs at the child in what investigators are treating as a hate crime.
According to the New York Police Department, Kevin Maxwell, 37, was taken into custody shortly before 1 a.m. Sunday in connection with the alleged assault, which occurred on the evening of April 29 near a playground at the NYCHA Baruch Houses.
Authorities say the arrest follows an investigation that lasted several months after the suspect allegedly fled the scene.
Police Say Child Was Targeted Near Playground
Investigators allege that Maxwell approached the 12-year-old boy near the playground before verbally confronting him.
According to police, the suspect directed anti-LGBTQIA+ slurs at the child before allegedly striking him multiple times with a belt.
Authorities said the incident occurred in a public area near the residential complex, where the child was reportedly targeted without warning.
The alleged assault left the victim with minor injuries, though police have not released additional details about the child’s condition.
Alleged Anti-Gay Remarks Led to Hate Crime Charges
Investigators allege the attack included hateful language directed at the victim because of perceived sexual orientation.
According to reports, Maxwell allegedly shouted:
“Are you stupid or something? You gay f—. Shut the f–k up.”
Because of the alleged statements made during the incident, investigators classified the case as a suspected hate crime.
Police say the suspect fled immediately after the attack and remained at large while detectives continued investigating the case.
Months-Long Investigation Ends With Arrest
Following the alleged assault, the NYPD released a sketch of a bearded suspect wearing a hooded sweatshirt in an effort to identify the individual involved.
Authorities announced that Maxwell was arrested several months later after investigators gathered evidence linking him to the case.
Police have not released additional information about what led to the arrest or whether any witnesses assisted investigators during the search.
Multiple Criminal Charges Filed
Following his arrest, Maxwell was charged with several offenses, including:
- Two counts of hate crime assault
- Three counts of assault
- Acting in a manner injurious to a child
- Hate crime menacing
- Menacing
Authorities have not released further details regarding Maxwell’s upcoming court appearances or whether he has entered a plea.
The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with additional information about the incident is encouraged to contact law enforcement.
What are your thoughts on this case? How can communities better protect children from hate-motivated violence? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.