NEW YORK: Jennifer Guilbeault, a former employee of D. Pagan Communications, has been formally indicted by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg on serious hate-crime charges stemming from a disturbing incident in July, where she allegedly pepper sprayed an Uber driver in the face.
Bragg announced the indictment of Guilbeault on Monday, stating that she faces multiple charges in a New York State Supreme Court indictment, including one count each of assault in the second degree as a hate crime, assault in the third degree as a hate crime, and aggravated harassment in the second degree.
“As alleged, Jennifer Guilbeault senselessly assaulted a Muslim Uber driver while he was just doing his job,” remarked Bragg in a statement. “The victim is a hardworking New Yorker who should not have to face this type of hate because of his identity. Everyone is welcome to live and work in Manhattan, and our Hate Crimes Unit will continue to address bias-motivated attacks by thoroughly investigating and prosecuting cases, while also conducting community outreach and providing support to victims.”
According to court documents and statements made during the proceedings, the victim, identified as Shonel Mahmud, a practicing Muslim, was completing a ride for Guilbeault and another passenger when he began to pray in Arabic. In what appeared to be an unprovoked attack, Guilbeault allegedly sprayed him directly in the face, resulting in immediate discomfort characterized by “burning, redness, and pain,” as described in a statement from the district attorney. Following the assault, Mahmud promptly called 911, leading to Guilbeault’s swift arrest at the scene.
This shocking incident, which unfolded in New York City in July, caught public attention after a video of the encounter went viral. Footage shows Guilbeault pepper-spraying Mahmud, with another woman in the vehicle heard expressing disbelief, repeatedly asking, “Jen, what the f**k?” Guilbeault, in troubling remarks captured on the video, justifies her actions by indicating that she used the pepper spray because Mahmud is “brown.”
Guilbeault’s attorney did not respond to multiple requests for comment regarding the case.
At the time of the incident, social media users quickly identified Guilbeault as a member of D. Pagan Communications.
“We are aware of the behavior of this former employee and we don’t condone this behavior,” stated the firm in a post on LinkedIn and X shortly after.
Agency president Debra Pagan confirmed via email that Guilbeault is indeed a former employee, but she refrained from disclosing the exact timing of when Guilbeault left the firm. Pagan established the agency, which specializes in the technology industry, back in 1996.
**Interview with District Attorney Alvin Bragg on Jennifer Guilbeault’s Indictment**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, District Attorney Bragg. Can you tell us more about the incident involving Jennifer Guilbeault and what led to her indictment?
**Alvin Bragg:** Thank you for having me. The incident occurred in July when Ms. Guilbeault allegedly pepper-sprayed an Uber driver who is a member of the Muslim community. This act of aggression was not only a personal attack but also a hate crime, reflecting a disturbing pattern of bias and intolerance in our city. Our office moved quickly to investigate and gather the necessary evidence to present a strong case.
**Editor:** The charges against Ms. Guilbeault include assault and aggravated harassment as hate crimes. Can you explain the significance of prosecuting these offenses as hate crimes?
**Alvin Bragg:** Absolutely. Hate crimes are particularly heinous because they target individuals based on their identity, whether it’s their race, religion, or any other characteristic. This not only harms the victim but also sends a message of fear to entire communities. By prosecuting such offenses as hate crimes, we aim to hold the perpetrator accountable and reaffirm our commitment to protecting all New Yorkers from bias-motivated violence.
**Editor:** What measures is your office taking to prevent hate crimes in the future?
**Alvin Bragg:** We have a dedicated Hate Crimes Unit that not only investigates and prosecutes these cases but also works closely with community organizations to provide support to victims. Additionally, we engage in community outreach to educate the public about hate crimes and encourage reporting any incidents. Our goal is to create a safe environment for everyone in Manhattan.
**Editor:** How has the community reacted to this incident?
**Alvin Bragg:** The community has expressed outrage and concern, rightfully so. This incident serves as a reminder that hate and intolerance can manifest anywhere. However, it has also strengthened resolve within the community to stand together against such acts. We appreciate the community’s support and cooperation as we move forward with this case.
**Editor:** Thank you, District Attorney Bragg, for your insights on this important issue.
**Alvin Bragg:** Thank you for having me, and for shedding light on this matter.
