The last of seven teenagers who took part in the hate killing of an Ecuadorian immigrant in Patchogue, LI, pleaded guilty yesterday.
Anthony Hartford’s plea to gang assault and other charges closes the prosecution phase of a case that prompted an ongoing Department of Justice probe of police responses to bias crimes. The judge indicated Hartford likely would face 10 years in prison when he’s sentenced July 20.
The 18-year-old admitted being with a group that targeted Hispanics for violence in November 2008. The attacks culminated in the stabbing death of immigrant Marcelo Lucero.
Hartford told state Supreme Court Justice Robert Doyle that he has thought about the consequences of his actions.
“Up to the day that I was arrested, I never thought a punch could cause serious physical injury,” he told the judge.
Hartford also pleaded guilty to four counts of attempted assault as a hate crime for earlier attacks on Hispanics.
A week ago, Jeffrey Conroy, 19, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for manslaughter as a hate crime and other charges. Five other teens who pleaded guilty await sentencing.
The victim’s brother, Joselo Lucero, said he felt justice had been served.
“The day my brother was killed, I was not there for him,” he told reporters. “That’s why I wanted to be here for him, to demand justice, to demand what is right.”