According to local news channel WPBF, the attack took place while Lal was attending to Scantlebury, who had been involuntarily hospitalised under Florida’s Baker Act following a mental health crisis. The arrest affidavit states that Scantlebury suddenly launched a violent assault on Lal, repeatedly punching her and breaking nearly every bone in her face. After the attack, he fled the scene but was quickly apprehended.
During questioning, Scantlebury allegedly admitted to the assault, reportedly stating, “Indians are bad. I just beat the s*** out of an Indian doctor.” His remarks prompted prosecutors to apply hate crime enhancements, which could result in more severe penalties if he is convicted.
“Hate crime enhancements, if proven, can lead to harsher sentences as they underline the motive behind the attack and its broader impact on the community,” the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office said.
Lal remains in intensive care at St. Mary’s Medical Centre, with doctors warning that she may lose vision in both eyes due to the extent of her injuries.
The Indian Nurses Association of South Florida has condemned the attack and called for stronger protections for healthcare workers. The assault on Lal comes just a week after another Indian-origin nurse, Achamma Cherian, was attacked in the UK, raising concerns over the safety of medical professionals from the Indian community.
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First Published: Mar 4, 2025 9:39 PM IST
