SAN FRANCISCO, CA – A man has been convicted of assault in a recent case targeting an older Asian woman, adding to a string of violent incidents against elderly residents of Asian descent in the Bay Area. The incident occurred in the early hours of June 8, 2022, outside an apartment building on Duboce Avenue, sparking concern about the safety of Asian residents in the area.
The victim, who owned the apartment building and lived there, was brutally beaten on the sidewalk after encountering the defendant, Thomas Crandell, who had attempted to break in. According to the SF District Attorney’s Office, the victim, whose name has not been disclosed, was awoken by Crandell’s banging and kicking on the glass door before she confronted him. She was verbally abused with an anti-Asian slur and then physically assaulted by Crandell before he fled the scene.
Following a 10-day manhunt, Crandell was apprehended by Park Station officers and faced trial for the crime. The jury ultimately found him guilty of assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury. The sentencing for the crime has been scheduled for January 29, with Crandell potentially facing up to four years in prison.
This incident brings to light the issue of violence against Asian residents in the area, as it preceded a similarly brutal attack on Duboce Avenue that resulted in the death of 64-year-old Mei Ran Hu. Jesus Esparza was arrested in connection with the later incident.
The jury’s decision to convict Crandell of assault sends a clear message against such egregious behavior and provides justice to the victim. The San Francisco District Attorney’s Office remains committed to standing with victims and fighting for justice in the courtroom to protect the safety of the public.