Lyons, N.Y. — A man accused of injuring his Black neighbor in a hate crime has been released on bail, according to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.
Police said Brandon Watt, 39, attacked Johnny White, now 71, with a two-by-four June 23, leaving him with serious injuries to his face.
Prosecutors said Watt had targeted White in the weeks leading up to the attack, repeatedly using racial slurs and making threats toward him.
Watt pleaded not guilty Sept. 1 after a grand jury indicted him on charges including assault as a hate crime and harassment.
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The sheriff’s office said Watt was released on bail Sept. 2 and is due back in court Sept. 22.
