December 1987
Yvonne Smallwood, a 27-year-old Black woman, dies after being beaten by New York City police officers during a dispute in the Bronx. Officers had been called about an altercation; Smallwood was struck repeatedly. Her death generates protests and calls for a civilian review board. The officers involved face no criminal charges.
Jon Lester and Scott Kern are convicted of second-degree manslaughter and assault for the Howard Beach attack on Michael Griffith. Lester receives 10 to 30 years. Special prosecutor Charles Hynes wins the convictions after the original Queens DA recused himself. The case establishes that racially motivated mob violence in New York can lead to serious convictions.
Events
- December 21, 1987Howard Beach Attackers Convicted; Jon Lester Sentenced to 10–30 Years
Jon Lester and Scott Kern are convicted of second-degree manslaughter and assault for the Howard Beach attack on Michael Griffith. Lester receives 10 to 30 years. Special prosecutor Charles Hynes wins the convictions after the original Queens DA recused himself. The case establishes that racially motivated mob violence in New York can lead to serious convictions.
- December 19, 1987Yvonne Smallwood Dies After Bronx Police Assault
Yvonne Smallwood, a 27-year-old Black woman, dies after being beaten by New York City police officers during a dispute in the Bronx. Officers had been called about an altercation; Smallwood was struck repeatedly. Her death generates protests and calls for a civilian review board. The officers involved face no criminal charges.