A couple who were accused of assaulting a 59-year-old hotel worker in Mystic, Connecticut while shouting racial slurs have been arrested in Brooklyn, New York, it is reported.
The attack allegedly took place on June 26 after the couple complained of a lack of hot water in their room authorities said, according to local news sources.
Philip Sarner, 39, and Emily Orbay, 28 are accused of targeting 59-year-old hotel clerk Crystal Caldwell. Per NBC Connecticut, Sarner faces charges of "second-degree assault, third-degree assault, and intimidation based on bigotry and bias," while Orbay faces chargers of "third-degree assault and intimidation based on bigotry and bias."
NBC reporter Shomari Stone wrote on Twitter, "JUST IN: Couple accused of racist attack at Connecticut hotel arrested in N.Y. Philip Sarner and Emily Orbay are accused of attacking Crystal Caldwell, a Black desk clerk, on June 26 at a Quality Inn;"
Per NBC, Sarner and Orbay are not believed to have a permanent address, but are based primarily in Nassau County on Long Island.
NBC News further reports that Caldwell and her attorney, M. John Strafaci stated that the couple attacked her twice and called her a "monkey."
Strafaci told NBC that Caldwell suffered a severe concussion, as well as injuries to her back, knees and right eye.
Police said they received two calls reporting a disturbance at the Quality Inn. The first came from a colleague of Caldwell's, who is reported as saying that a guest was "beating up on my desk clerk" and "he is smacking my desk clerk around."
Now, a GoFundMe page has been set up by Crystal Caldwell, who says that she has been left unable to work a result of the injuries she sustained during the incident.
A portion of the fundraiser description reads:
"On Friday June 26, 2020 on my job at the Quality Inn in Mystic I was assaulted by two patrons. As a result, my injuries have prohibited me from returning to work. At this time, I am not receiving any compensation. As I am sure you are all aware my bills will still remain due. I want to be very clear I am not soliciting any donations this is just for the people who have tried to reach out to help."
The fundraiser has garnered more than $7500 in donations, as well-wishers post supportive comments on the GoFundMe page.
"My heart breaks for you - but remember, there are more good people in the world than bad. Feel better soon!" one person wrote, while another added, "Crystal, I am sorry this happened to you. I wish you a fast and full recovery."
"The world needs to change and it’s been too long in coming." A third commenter wrote.
Sarner and Orbay were released on Tuesday after posting bonds of $75,000 and $50,000. They are due in court on July 29.
