Skiboky Stora, a Brooklyn resident, was indicted on hate crimes charges in New York City for a series of assaults against strangers based on their perceived gender, race, and religion. Manhattan District Attorney Bragg expressed that the city values respect and acceptance, and nobody should fear for their safety due to their identity. Stora was charged with assaulting, stalking, and harassing individuals from September 2023 to March, with formal charges including assault, stalking, and aggravated harassment as hate crimes. One of the incidents, which occurred on March 25, involved a 23-year-old woman being punched in the Chelsea neighborhood, attracting widespread attention after she posted about it on TikTok.
Influencer Halley McGookin, also known as “Halley Kate,” made a tearful video describing her attack by Stora, who allegedly punched her in the head as she walked past him, causing her to fall to the ground. Another incident on Nov. 18, 2023, involved a Jewish couple walking their dogs in Union Square when Stora tore down posters of Israeli hostages held captive in Gaza by Hamas. When the couple stared at him, Stora followed and shouted anti-white and antisemitic remarks before a good Samaritan invited them into a building. Stora followed them into the lobby and yelled “Die, Jews, Die.” On October 26, 2023, a “fair-skinned” woman was elbowed by Stora, causing pain and bruising.
The first known incident involving Stora occurred on Sept. 20, 2023 when he elbowed a 17-year-old White student in the neck, making derogatory remarks. Stora has been involved in fringe political activities, including an unsuccessful City Council bid last year where he lost to Yusef Salaam, one of the “Central Park Five” falsely convicted of the 1989 rape of a white woman in Central Park. Stora’s actions have sparked concern and outrage in New York City, with Bragg praising prosecutors for their commitment to seeking justice for the victims. It is essential to address and condemn such hate-motivated incidents to maintain a safe and inclusive environment for all residents.
The incidents involving Stora have been alarming both for the victims and the wider community, drawing attention to the prevalence of hate crimes based on gender, race, and religion. Social media played a significant role in raising awareness about the attacks, with millions viewing the TikTok post by one victim who was punched by Stora. The assaults have ranged from verbal abuse, such as shouting anti-white and antisemitic remarks, to physical violence resulting in injuries. Stora’s behavior illustrates the need for continued efforts to combat hate crimes and promote tolerance and acceptance in society.
Stora’s actions have highlighted the need for increased vigilance against hate-motivated crimes in New York City and elsewhere. The incidents he is accused of, targeting individuals based on their identity, have underscored the importance of creating a culture of respect and understanding. Prosecutors are working diligently to hold Stora accountable for his alleged crimes and seek justice for the victims. By condemning and addressing hate crimes, communities can work towards fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society for all residents.
Overall, the indictment of Skiboky Stora on hate crimes charges in New York City has shed light on the issue of targeted violence against individuals based on their perceived gender, race, and religion. The incidents he is accused of have sparked outrage and concern, prompting a call for increased awareness and action to address hate crimes. Stora’s alleged assaults have highlighted the need for ongoing efforts to promote tolerance, respect, and acceptance in society, and for the justice system to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. By standing united against hate, communities can strive to create a safer and more welcoming environment for all individuals.
