A United States Postal Service worker faces charges after surveillance video captured him pushing a four-year-old Jewish boy to the ground during a mail delivery in Monsey, New York. Authorities confirm the incident does not qualify as a hate crime.
Details of the Incident
Gabriel Stan, 39, received arrest on Friday following the Thursday evening event around 6:25 p.m. in the Town of Ramapo. The boy approached Stan’s mail truck near a communal mailbox when Stan allegedly shoved him forcefully. The child fell backward, quickly recovered, retrieved his yarmulke—a traditional Orthodox Jewish head covering—and walked away.
Video footage shows Stan returning to his truck before appearing to yell at the boy and nearby friends. He wore a black beanie and USPS uniform during the altercation.
Charges and Police Response
Ramapo Police determined Stan intentionally pushed the boy under seven years old. Charges include endangering the welfare of a child, attempted assault in the third degree, and felony attempted assault in the second degree. Stan secured release on his own recognizance and awaits a court appearance at Ramapo Justice Court. His attorney status and plea remain undisclosed.
Investigators state the push lacks religious motivation, despite Monsey’s large Hasidic and Orthodox Jewish community. Ramapo earned recognition last year as America’s safest place to live.
Community and Official Reactions
Photos from the scene depict Orthodox Jewish children and parents gathered amid police presence in the suburban neighborhood. Local leaders voiced strong condemnation.
Ramapo Town Supervisor Michael Specht viewed the footage and described it as “very disturbing,” assuring residents of serious police handling. New York State Assemblyman Aron Wieder called the attack “appalling and deeply troubling, never acceptable under any circumstances.”
State Senator Bill Weber expressed shared outrage from constituents, stating on X: “I’ve heard from constituents who are deeply alarmed by the assault of a young child in the @TownOfRamapo. I share their concern and outrage,” and demanded full prosecution.
