Delmon Young, left fielder for MLB’s Detroit Tigers, was arrested and charged with hate crime harassment after he apparently attacked a group of tourists and screamed anti-Semitic epithets, which is defined as hatred towards the Jewish race.
Young was standing outside of the Hilton Hotel in New York City where he was a guest when four Chicago tourists were approached by a panhandler of Jewish descent, who was wearing a yarmulke. As the group of Chicagoans, who were staying at the same hotel, approached the front entrance, Young immediately starting yelling slurs. Though it wasn’t clear who he was referring to, he engaged in physical contact with one of the Chicago group, who ultimately suffered wounds to his elbows.
New York Detective Joseph Cavitolo told the Detroit Free Press that the 32-year-old man refused medical attention.
After officers were called to the scene, Young was arrested at about 4 a.m. and was sent to a nearby hospital, initially as a result of being intoxicated. He faces an “aggravated harassment hate crime” charge and was processed on Friday, April 27th.
The Detroit Tigers’ organization made a statement in regards to the matter.
“We are aware of the situation, however it is our club policy not to comment on pending legal matters. As we understand it, this is an allegation and we need to allow the legal process to take its course. It would be inappropriate for us to comment further at this time. Per a provision in the Major League Baseball Basic Agreement, any allegation that involves alcohol is referred to MLB’s Employee Assistance Program.”
The Tigers have a game against the New York Yankees Friday night at 7:05, but it’s unclear as to whether or not Young will be able to play.
