For Immediate Release
Contact: bpacheco@nylag.org | c: 917.771.9845
(NEW YORK, NY) January 21, 2020: Maria Fuertes was a 92- year old woman from Queens who was sexually assaulted and murdered by a 21- year old undocumented person earlier this month. This case has attracted the Trump administration’s attention, giving them a renewed aim at immigrant communities and sanctuary cities. The New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) President & Attorney-in-Charge Beth Goldman, has issued the following statement:
“Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of Maria Fuertes. We hope that her killer is brought to justice. At that same time, we reject President Trump’s attempt to use Fuertes tragic death to demonize immigrant communities and sanctuary cities. We believe in the right of due process for all, regardless of immigration status. The horrible actions of one person should not define a community.”
About NYLAG
Founded in 1990, the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) is a leading not-for-profit legal services organization advocating for adults, children, and families that are experiencing poverty or have low-income. We address emerging and urgent needs with comprehensive, free civil legal services, direct representation, impact litigation, policy advocacy, financial counseling, a medical-legal partnership model, and community education and partnerships.
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