Simi Valley, CA — An 18-year-old Black teen is speaking out after being violently assaulted by a group of teenagers in what he describes as a racially-motivated attack outside the Regal Cinemas on Tapo Canyon Road.
Assault Captured on Video
On August 2, Michael Robinson was out with friends when a group of intoxicated teens allegedly began harassing one of his companions over prior disputes. The group reportedly punched his friend before turning on Robinson, yelling racial slurs.
“They hit one of my friends in the face first. Then, they rush me… they slam me into the hood of somebody’s car and jump me,” Robinson told reporters.
Cellphone video taken by a witness shows the group punching and kicking Robinson, forcing him to retreat through the parking lot. He attempted to seek help from a mall security guard, but claims the guard refused to intervene.
Robinson says the attackers eventually put his head in a trash can and struck him repeatedly in the back of the head.
Injuries and Arrests
The attack left Robinson with cuts, bruises, and a chipped tooth. He and his mother reported the assault to police, prompting a criminal investigation.
By the following day, four teenagers were arrested for battery. Authorities confirmed that one suspect is the son of a Simi Valley police officer, but said the officer will have no role in the case. All four suspects were cited and released pending further charges as reported by KTLA.
Community Calls for Hate Crime Charges
During an August 4 Simi Valley City Council meeting, residents demanded that the attack be prosecuted as a hate crime.
“What happened on Saturday is a hate crime, and I urge you to ask the DA to investigate and prosecute it as such,” one speaker said.
“On behalf of the Black student body of Simi Valley, we demand justice for Michael Robinson,” another resident declared.
Robinson’s attorney, Jamal Tooson, called for an equitable investigation, stating, “The entire county of Ventura is watching… on a national level, we are going to be looking to see how this situation is handled.”
Robinson Speaks Out
Robinson says his goal is to bring awareness and prevent similar attacks.
“I forgive [the attackers], but there are consequences to your actions,” he said.
As of now, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office has not announced whether hate crime charges will be filed.
Do you believe prosecutors should pursue hate crime charges in this case? Share your thoughts in the comments.
