Buffalo, NY — Three Buffalo residents, all related as two brothers and their uncle, were recently sentenced in a court ruling that concluded a disturbing case involving a violent attack that occurred in August 2023. The attack left the victim with serious injuries, necessitating long-term medical care.
The incident unfolded on Broadway Avenue outside a bottle redemption center where a conflict escalated to violence. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office reported that during the assault, the victim was brutally beaten while on the ground, including being stabbed in the face.
24-year-old Amonti Atkins, one of the brothers involved, played a particularly dire role in the assault. Amonti’s actions escalated to stabbing the victim, and he, alongside his brother and uncle, continued the beating even after the victim was incapacitated. For his part in the heinous act, Amonti Atkins faced charges of second-degree attempted murder, first-degree assault, and first-degree gang assault.
Likewise, 28-year-old Amari Atkins faced similar charges reflecting his role in the collective assault. Both brothers pleaded guilty and were each sentenced to 12½ years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision.
Their uncle, 53-year-old Demetrius Gore, also participated in the attack, specifically by kicking the victim in the back and stomping on his face. Gore pleaded guilty to second-degree assault in May and received a lighter sentence of five years in prison and 1½ years of post-release supervision.
This tragic event highlights ongoing concerns in urban settings related to violence and public safety. It also raises questions about the factors that contribute to such assaults and the measures needed to prevent them. Community leaders and law enforcement are now faced with the task of reassessing their strategies on violence deterrence and public education about crime and safety.
The sentencing of the three men marks a significant resolution to a case that has shocked the local community, bringing some closure to a brutal incident. However, the long-term care required for the victim underscores the lasting impact of such violence on individuals and their families.
The Erie County District Attorney emphasized the seriousness of the crime and the commitment of the legal system to hold individuals accountable for such violent acts. Local community activists have also reignited their calls for more robust community policing and initiatives aimed at reducing violence.
As the community reflects on this violent incident and its aftermath, there is a renewed focus on collaboration among law enforcement, community leaders, and residents to foster a safer environment. Efforts are also being doubled to provide support to the victim and his family, who are now focusing on recovery.