Newark officials say police continue to investigate a recent attack that left Johnny "Tat" White hospitalized with jaw and orbital fractures.
The village said White was severely beaten on his own property after a period of harassment by a neighbor, and local officials are urging anyone with additional information to contact the Newark Police Department.
The statement from village leadership said the Newark Community Collaboration Committee met with Wayne Action for Racial Equality and community advocate James Schuler to discuss reports of racial motivation in the incident and its impact on the community.
The committee also discussed public concern as news agencies report that a hate crime designation is not being made, according to the village.
The Newark Police Department said the case remains under investigation and that officers will continue gathering evidence to present to the district attorney, who is responsible for charging decisions.
Police said they consider the matter serious and are continuing to provide additional support to White and his family to ensure an order of protection is honored.
WARE, in a statement referenced by the village, said communities must respond to reported acts of hatred and racial violence with accountability, equal justice under the law and a commitment to preventing further acts of hate.
The Newark Community Collaboration Committee encouraged residents to contact police with concerns about harassment involving racial overtones so appropriate action can be taken.
Anyone with information about White's case is asked to call the Newark Police Department.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to news@fingerlakes1.com.