The Turlock Police Department is investigating a reported hate crime after a Hispanic woman was punched in the face by an unknown white man.
The police department stated that because it was a potential hate crime, they could not release any details regarding the incident, but a post on the Turlock Neighborhood Watch Facebook page gives an overview of what transpired.
The assault happened around 3:30 p.m. Sunday in the 1700 block of W. Monte Vista Boulevard, which is near a fruit stand selling strawberries.
Racism will not be tolerated in this community, as racism has no potential for human progress.Roger Enriquez
The post, written by Roger Enriquez, said his friend’s mother had just made a purchase at the stand and was walking to her car when she was approached by a man she did not know. The man called her a derogatory term, then punched her in the face.
“The purpose of this post is to warn others in the community, especially those of color/minorities, about the increasing hate crimes around our beautiful town. Racism will not be tolerated in this community, as racism has no potential for human progress,” Enriquez wrote.
The police department is looking to speak to anyone who witnessed the attack or anyone who saw a thin, white male adult with no shirt and dark jeans in the area.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to call Officer Mike Stapler at 668-5550 extension 6683. People can also contact the Turlock Police Department’s Tip Line at 668-5550 extension 6780 or email at tpdtipline@turlock.ca.us.
