Teens charged with hate crimes after objects thrown at Orthodox community in Ramapo

RAMAPO - Four people have been charged with hate crimes in the wake of weekend incidents in which four members of the Orthodox community were struck or nearly struck by objects apparently thrown from a passing vehicle in Ramapo.

Town of Ramapo police initially said the attacks occurred in Kaser, along Route 306 and Maple Avenue, but later said they took place in the town's Monsey hamlet. They were reported to police on Sunday.

According to police, a man was struck by what might have been a pellet or a BB. A woman who was pushing a stroller had an egg thrown at her but it did not hit her. Then, two females were walking together when one was struck by something in the shoulder from behind.

No serious physical injuries were reported.

Police said an investigation led to identifying the suspects and the vehicle.

Police identified the suspects as a 19-year-old of Valley Cottage resident, 19-year-old of Tomkins Cove, an 18-year-old who is eligible for youthful offender status, and a 17-year-old who qualifies for juvenile status.

They were charged with attempted second-degree assault as a hate crime, a felony; and second-degree reckless endangerment as a hate crime, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon, fifth- and sixth-degree conspiracy, second-degree aggravated harassment, and endangering the welfare of a child, all misdemeanors.

Orthodox community: Ramapo police investigating possible hate crimes