FRESNO, California, USA—Gilbert Garcia Jr. who had brutally attacked an elderly member of the Sikh community this year in May is going to be sent to Atascadero State Hospital. Garcia had pleaded not guilty for attacking Bhai Piara Singh of Gurdwara Nanaksar, Fresno, California. Doctors who had examined Garcia have recommended him for treatment at the mental hospital.
Bhai Piara Singh had became the target of a hate crime outside Gurdwara Nanaksar, Cherry Road. Bhai Piara Singh is a volunteer at the Gurdwara and performs daily chores there. After being attacked, Bhai Piara Singh was admitted to local community hospital and treated for severe injuries.
The incident took place just outside the premises of Gurdwara Nanaksar when Piara Singh was walking towards his house after performing some morning duties.
Fresno is located in the heart of the Central Valley of California and has a sizable Sikh and Punjabi population. Although such vicious attacks are rare, they have continued to disturb the community living there. Not too long ago, a ‘parcharik’, or preacher, was attacked at Fresno’s International Airport next to the TSA office.
Post 9/11, Sikhs in the Central Valley have been victimized by hate crimes—even Sikh children are bullied at school about their appearance and values.
