New York — In a disturbing event that has sparked widespread outrage, a Georgia representative has called for the death penalty for a migrant accused of a brutal attack on a woman in a New York City subway. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Republican, voiced her opinion on social media concerning the case of 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta, urging authorities to bypass a prolonged trial and proceed directly to sentencing.
On Christmas Eve, Greene expressed her disgust over the crime on the platform X, emphasizing the heinous nature of the act. She noted that the video of the incident circulating on social media was too disturbing to watch, criticizing bystanders’ apparent inactivity during the attack, although it remains unclear from the footage whether attempts were made to help the victim.
Authorities reported that the incident occurred while the victim was asleep on a Brooklyn train late at night. Zapeta is accused of using a shirt to intensify the flames after setting the woman on fire, an act that led to severe consequences.
Sebastian Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen who officials stated had entered the U.S. illegally, now faces charges including two counts of murder and one count of arson. The most serious charge against him could lead to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, highlighting the gravity of the allegations.
The heinous nature of the crime was further underscored by Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch at a news conference. She described the murder as exceptionally depraved, pointing out the brutality of the crime committed against a vulnerable individual.
Currently held at the Rikers Island complex, Zapeta is expected to appear in court again this Friday for further proceedings in a case that has attracted significant legal and public attention.
The public and political reactions to this case reflect broader debates about crime and punishment, particularly in instances involving undocumented immigrants. The call by Rep. Greene for the death penalty has ignited discussions on justice and the appropriate measures to be taken in such extreme cases, within the bounds of the U.S. legal system.
Such incidents not only raise questions about security in public transportation but also highlight the polarized perspectives on how justice should be administered, especially in capital cases. As the legal process unfolds, this case continues to be a focal point in discussions about crime, punishment, and immigration across New York City and the nation.