Maria Coto, a 56-year-old senior social worker, died after being brutally beaten during a routine home visit. The attack, which occurred on May 14, 2024, in Peekskill, New York, resulted in severe injuries that led to her death on June 19.
On the day of the attack, Coto mistakenly knocked on the door of Hasseem Jenkins, a 31-year-old with a history of violent behavior. Jenkins, who was wearing heavy boots, allegedly responded by repeatedly punching and kicking Coto, causing severe brain bleeding, swelling, and multiple facial fractures.
“The criminal complaint details a horrific crime,” reported the Westchester County District Attorney’s office. “Coto was punched and repeatedly kicked…causing severe brain bleed, swelling of the brain, and multiple facial fractures.”
Coto was immediately transported to Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, where she remained on life support until her death. Westchester County Executive George Latimer expressed profound sorrow over the death of Maria Coto, stating, “We are deeply heartbroken to learn of her tragic passing. Maria was a committed worker with the Westchester County Department of Social Services, who was viciously assaulted while devotedly carrying out her responsibilities.”
The Peekskill Police Department swiftly apprehended Jenkins at the scene. He was initially charged with attempted murder and first-degree assault but is now expected to face upgraded charges of murder. He remains in custody at the Westchester County Jail, awaiting his next court appearance.
Jenkins has a history of violent behavior and legal troubles. Prior to this incident, he was arrested on October 20, 2023, for disorderly conduct and assault. He failed to appear in court multiple times before finally being arraigned in December 2023 and pleading not guilty. He was also involved in a felony assault case in 2011, where he punched a 16-year-old boy and resisted arrest.
Westchester County District Attorney Mimi Rocah has confirmed that he will face new charges due to Coto’s death. Rocah stated, “In light of Coto’s passing, we will seek all appropriate charges given the altered circumstances.”
This incident has sparked a renewed focus on the safety of social workers, who often face unpredictable and potentially dangerous situations in the field. Hattie Adams, president of the Civil Service Employees Association(CSEA) Unit 9200, emphasized the risks inherent in the profession, stating, “We will continue to make sure that we work in conjunction with the county to provide the safety and health, well-being for all of our members.”
Westchester County has announced additional safety measures for its social services staff in response to the attack. These include enhanced security escorts during community and home visits, more workers going out in pairs, and emergency funding for additional security measures. “We hope that Maria gets justice for what has happened to her,” said Adams.
Maria Coto’s death has profoundly affected the community she served. A statement from CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan emphasized the significance of her loss: “Maria Coto’s life was tragically ended in a brutal and mindless attack while she was performing her duties. Her absence is deeply felt across CSEA and is a solemn reminder of the ongoing need to advocate for worker safety.”
Coto’s friend expressed the collective grief and disbelief in a message to the Yonkers Times, “All that my cousin did was knock on the wrong door, and she was taken from us for that? Mental illness is a ticking time bomb. Help us, Jesus. This type of crime doesn’t happen in Westchester. She didn’t deserve it.”
A vigil held in Coto’s honor drew a significant turnout from the community and her colleagues, all wearing pink to honor her memory. “We prefer not to dwell on the events that befell Maria. Instead, we aim to remember the Maria known by her friends, colleagues, and CSEA family,” said Adams. Her peers recalled her commitment, kindness, and enthusiasm for helping others. “She had a love for dancing and the color pink,” Adams added.
The investigation is still active, and authorities request anyone with information to contact the Peekskill Police Detective Bureau. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online.