The two juveniles accused of bullying and trying to rip the headscarf off a Muslim girl in their Staten Island middle school were ordered held without bail on Thursday. Prosecutors are calling the alleged attack a hate crime.
A 13-year-old girl was arrested this week on charges she helped bully and attack a Muslim girl days after a 12-year-old boy was arrested in connection with the case. The girl, who has a pending case for allegedly attacking a pizza delivery man, is being charged as a juvenile.
She was charged with third-degree assault as a hate crime and attempted robbery. The 13-year-old and the boy were led into a juvenile corrections van Thursday after the judge ruled them held without bail following an appearance in Richmond County Family Court.
"Based on [the 13-year-old's] history, I do believe she is capable of committing another crime," Judge Helene Sacco said.
Authorities say the two bullied and tormented a 13-year-old Muslim girl at the school, calling her a "terrorist" and trying to steal from her.
They say the abuse culminated with the two trying to rip off her headscarf. The girl suffered minor injuries.
If convicted, the 13-year-old faces 18 months in juvenile detention. School officials say disciplinary action is pending.
