SOUTH BEACH, Fla. (WSVN) — A tourist visiting Miami became a victim in a brutal attack on South Beach. He claims he was targeted for his sexual orientation in what he calls a "hate crime."
Jordan Schaeffer spoke to 7News about the physical altercation, which occurred during his first visit to South Florida from California in March. He said the ordeal has left him scarred, fearful and now he is demanding justice.
Schaeffer said he was attacked in a fast food restaurant on South Beach. "All of a sudden, I got slammed to the ground. It was kind of a blur. I was getting kicked; I was getting hit," he said. "I sustained welts to my forehead, my skull, my nose and my jaw. I have cuts on my right arm. I have cuts on my left hand."
Schaeffer and his boyfriend said they were standing in line at a Burger King when they kissed. Then, someone called them a racial slur and attacked. Surveillance cameras captured the fight as it ensued. "I’ve never been victimized for my sexuality. It’s kind of something that now, to be honest, [has left me] kind of scared. It just doesn’t make me comfortable," he said.
The surveillance video also showed the attacker wrapping his legs around Schaeffer’s head. Police said this may be a professional fighting move. The victim’s boyfriend tried to intervene, but he was pushed away by another man, who police said was with the attacker.
His attorney said that this incident was more than just a fight. He believes that Schaeffer was attacked because he is gay. "We believe that this is a hate crime perpetrated against Jordan because of his sexual orientation," said attorney Douglas Ede.
He expected to relax and recuperate on his trip. However, what he didn’t expect was to leave broken and scarred. "The biggest kind of injury has been all this emotional trauma," he said. "I mean, we were going to Miami for a relaxing weekend, and it was traumatizing, to be honest."
If you recognize his attacker, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a $1,000 reward.