Brooklyn, New York – A Brooklyn man from Stuyvesant Heights has been sentenced to 17 years to life in prison for the sexual assault of a 62-year-old woman. Leroy Hatcher, 44, pleaded guilty to first-degree attempted criminal sexual act and first-degree sexual abuse for attacking the victim as she was on her way to work. The violent incident occurred on February 6, 2021, at around 5:45 a.m. near 482 Kosciuszko St.
During the assault, Hatcher reportedly grabbed the woman by the hair, covered her mouth with his hand, and threatened her with a knife before committing the sexual assault. Surveillance video footage from different locations helped in identifying Hatcher, along with the recovery of a condom containing both his and the victim’s DNA from the crime scene. Hatcher was taken into custody on February 24, 2021.
Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Danny Chun handed down the sentence to Hatcher, emphasizing the severity of the crime and the impact it had on the victim. District Attorney Eric Gonzalez expressed his commitment to seeking justice for all victims of sexual violence and ensuring the safety of everyone in Brooklyn. The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Gwen Barnes and Assistant District Attorney Sherri Litvak under the supervision of Assistant District Attorney Miss Gregory, Bureau Chief.
The sentencing marks a significant step in holding perpetrators of sexual violence accountable and seeking justice for survivors. The community stands in support of the victim and condemns such acts of violence. Hatcher will serve his sentence in prison, serving as a warning to others who may consider committing similar crimes. This case highlights the importance of effective prosecution and legal action in addressing sexual violence and ensuring the safety of all individuals in the community.