(FeautredNews.com) – A 16-year-old was arrested on Thursday, charged with the violent assault and robbery of 68-year-old Irene Tahliambouris outside St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Queens, New York, according to the NYPD.
The assault, which was captured on security footage, occurred when the teenager allegedly shoved Tahliambouris from the church steps, causing her to go airborne and land harshly on her back. The family reported that she suffered a fractured skull and a black eye as a result of the fall. While she lay in pain, the assailant is accused of stealing $300, her cellphone, and her car before fleeing the scene.
The family expressed their devastation over the attack in a statement, lamenting the “vicious” act that occurred as she was ascending the church steps, and criticized what they perceive as a lenient stance on crime enforcement that has allowed such violent acts to proliferate.
They voiced frustration with state and local laws, linking a lack of stringent legal repercussions to a rise in both petty and violent crimes. They urged legislative changes to ensure harsher penalties and better protection for the community.
Following the attack, Tahliambouris was hospitalized in critical condition but has since stabilized and shown signs of improvement, giving her family and friends hope. Her family described her as a kind-hearted woman, always ready to assist others and known for her cheerful disposition.
In response to the incident, her son has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support his mother’s recovery and help her rebuild her life.
The case has gained significant attention, prompting assurances from local authorities that it is being handled with the utmost seriousness. The family has expressed their gratitude for the support from the community and the diligent efforts of law enforcement to bring the assailant to justice and restore safety to their neighborhood.
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