Suspects in Santana Row assault surrender to San Jose police

Daytime Assault at Santana Row Investigated as Possible Hate Crime

A California attorney is one of three men facing charges related to a daytime attack at Santana Row, a high-end shopping and dining area. The incident is being viewed as potentially anti-Semitic; the victim reported that slurs were hurled during the assault.

The suspects—Brunille Henry Chamaki, 32, from Morgan Hill, along with brothers Roman and Ramon Acoyans—have turned themselves in to the authorities. They are facing both felony and misdemeanor charges related to assault and battery, with a court appearance set for May 12.

Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen expressed strong condemnation, stating, “I will not tolerate hitting a victim on the ground in front of a restaurant. Our public spaces must be safe for everyone to enjoy without fear.”

Currently, prosecutors have not filed hate crime charges, but they emphasize that the investigation is ongoing.

According to police, all three men turned themselves in after arrest warrants were obtained, without any complications.

“This case remains active, and we will continue to collaborate closely with the District Attorney’s Office as they navigate the criminal justice process,” the San Jose police noted. They assured the community that those responsible for the attack will be held accountable.

Investigators are addressing community concerns and have taken a thorough approach to gather evidence. Authorities have utilized surveillance footage, social media, and public tips to track down the suspects.

Chamaki, a licensed attorney, previously worked at a law firm but has not been with them since January. A spokesperson for the firm expressed shock and dismay at the reported violence, condemning anti-Semitism and any form of violence.

The assault occurred on March 8 outside Augustine Restaurant. The victims, who are Israeli-American men, were conversing in Hebrew when they were approached by the suspects. One of the victims described feeling uneasy as the suspects looked at them “very strangely,” which led to a confrontation.

Witnesses reported that one suspect shouted a slur before the situation escalated with all three men attacking. The violence quickly intensified, knocking one victim unconscious and leaving the other surrounded.

As the attack progressed, bystanders attempted to intervene and shouted for it to stop. Following the assault, one victim reported experiencing head pain and an elbow injury. Reports indicate that at least one witness heard a remark about Iran made during the incident.

After the attack, the suspects fled the scene but were later tracked on surveillance video getting into a vehicle. Victims were able to identify the suspects in a photo lineup, with community tips aiding in the investigation.