PEEKSKILL, NY — A social worker in Westchester County, New York is on life support after she was brutally beaten during a home visit in Peekskill.
The indictment details a gruesome crime in which caseworker Maria Coto was punched and kicked by a man wearing heavy boots after she accidentally knocked on his door during a field visit.
The union representing social workers called it the most serious attack on a member in recent history.
“She came looking for someone who lived on the third floor,” a neighbor told CBS New York.
“I’m gonna kill you, b****”
Coto, 56, ran into that neighbor’s apartment. The suspect allegedly followed her and kept saying, “I’m going to kill you. I’m going to kill you, b****. I’m going to kill you, b****,” the neighbor said.
The neighbor said he grabbed the suspect by the neck to stop him.
Coto “fell flat on the ground, face down,” the neighbor said.
Suspect suspected of attempted murder
Haseem Jenkins, 31, was charged with attempted murder and assault. He was being held without bail and had skipped several court dates on a disorderly conduct charge in October 2023.
County Executive George Latimer approved an emergency contract to expand security escorts. Some decision makers went in pairs to make community and home visits.
“We are devastated that our member was attacked while working in the community. A tragic reminder of the risks CSEA members face while providing essential services,” said Jessica Ladlee, a union spokesperson.
The union said it supports the action the province has taken to protect DSS staff, who are understandably upset by the crime.
Tony Aiello
