A 60-year-old hot dog and fruit vendor, Arabelia Martinez, was attacked in downtown Los Angeles on June 15. Martinez, who has been a street vendor since 1996, spoke about the assault and the support she has received from her family and the community.
Incident Details
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the incident occurred near 7th Street and Figueroa. Harmunie Heaven Church, 19, was arrested and charged with felony assault by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury, battery with serious bodily injury, and vandalism causing over $400 in damage.
Martinez thanked first responders for their help and urged other vendors who have faced violence to come forward and report crimes to authorities. She also emphasized the importance of dignity and freedom to work in this country.
Martinez’s son, Constantino Garcia, expressed his concern for his mother’s well-being, stating that she continues to suffer from severe headaches and pain throughout her body. Garcia also mentioned that his mother is emotionally traumatized and is not expected to return to work soon.
Investigation and Charges
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office is still investigating whether hate crime charges will be filed. Church pleaded not guilty at her arraignment, and bail was set at $105,000. She faces up to seven years and eight months in state prison if convicted.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
