THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
City Hall
New York, NY 10007
February 24, 2009
Contact: 212-788-7116
Release # 018-2009

Statement by Speaker Christine C. Quinn
Re: Arrest in the Murder of Hate Crime Victim Jose Sucuzhanay

"Jose Sucuzhanay was an example of the American dream. He immigrated to New York from his native Ecuador and worked to build a better life for himself and his family.

His dream was tragically cut short on a cold December night just steps away from his home when he was brutally attacked by people who were heard shouting hateful anti-gay and anti-immigrant slurs.

Tonight’s news of an arrest in the case will never bring Jose back but may help bring some closure to his family.

I want to thank the Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly, the NYPD Hate Crimes Unit and everyone at Brooklyn District Attorney's office and all the volunteers and advocates for helping to bring Jose's killers to justice.

We will not tolerate hate crimes like the one that took the life of Jose or hate crimes of any kind. All New Yorkers must stand together to denounce such reprehensible acts.

If anyone has information about the remaining suspect still at large, please call CRIME STOPPERS 1-800 577-TIPS (8477)."