Colorado Man Accused of Bias Crimes for Allegedly Attacking TV News Reporter
Arrest and Charges
A Colorado man, Patrick Thomas Egan, 39, was arrested on December 18 and booked on a slew of charges, including assault by strangulation, a bias-motivated crime, and harassment by ethnic intimidation. Egan was still being held in lieu of $20,000 bond at Mesa County Jail on Tuesday afternoon.
The Incident
According to an affidavit, Egan allegedly shouted aggressive remarks at KJCT reporter Ja-Ronn Alex, 22, a Pacific Islander, while following him in a taxi. When Alex returned to the station, Egan chased after him, demanding his ID and asking if he was an American. The suspect then tackled Alex to the ground, put him in a headlock, and began to strangle him.
Witness Account
Several employees of the station rushed to Alex’s side and pulled Egan’s arms from around his neck, holding him on the ground until law enforcement arrived. Witnesses reported that Alex’s face was turning red as he was being strangled, and he was losing his ability to breathe during the attack, which lasted between 45 and 90 seconds.
Charges and Court Appearance
Egan was booked on suspicion of assault by strangulation, a bias-motivated crime, and harassment by ethnic intimidation. He is due back in court on Thursday.
Reactions and Condemnation
The Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) strongly condemned the harassment and physical assault on Alex, stating that it highlights the ongoing threats faced by journalists and individuals from marginalized communities. AAJA also linked the incident to the increase in racist and anti-immigrant rhetoric during the pandemic.
Conclusion
The alleged attack on Ja-Ronn Alex is a disturbing reminder of the dangers faced by journalists and individuals from marginalized communities. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing bias and discrimination in our society.
FAQs
Q: What were the charges filed against Patrick Thomas Egan?
A: Egan was charged with assault by strangulation, a bias-motivated crime, and harassment by ethnic intimidation.
Q: What was the motive behind the alleged attack?
A: According to the affidavit, Egan allegedly shouted aggressive remarks at Alex, including "This is Trump’s America now! I’m a Marine and I took an oath to protect this country from people like you."
Q: What was the reaction of the Asian American Journalists Association?
A: AAJA strongly condemned the harassment and physical assault on Alex, stating that it highlights the ongoing threats faced by journalists and individuals from marginalized communities.
Q: What is the current status of the case?
A: Egan is still being held in lieu of $20,000 bond at Mesa County Jail, and is due back in court on Thursday.
