A Queens man was sentenced to two years in prison for an antisemitic attack that happened last year in Hewlett.
On February 4, 2024 at approximately 1:08 p.m., Bechir Lehbeib walked up to a home on Steven Drive. Lehbeib then took two flags from the front of the property — one flag which read, “In this home, we stand with Israel” and a second flag depicting a blend of the Israeli and American flags.
The homeowner saw Lehbeib walk away from his property with the flags, via a Ring camera app on his phone, and went outside to confront the defendant.
At that time, Lehbeib punched the homeowner in the face and brought the victim to the floor, where a physical altercation continued. While on the floor, Lehbeib headbutted the homeowner and trampled on the flags that he had taken from the porch. The defendant then allegedly left the area, and the victim called 911.
The defendant was arrested shortly afterwards by members of the Nassau County Police Department.
Lehbeib, 26, of Jamaica, Queens, pleaded guilty on November 21, 2025, before Judge Colin O’Donnell to one count of Assault in the Second Degree (a Class D violent felony) and Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree as a Hate Crime (a Class E felony) in satisfaction of the indictment.
The defendant was sentenced on December 9, 2025 to two years in prison and three years’ post-release supervision. An order of protection was also issued for the victim.
“This defendant’s despicable and unprovoked antisemitic attack brought violence and hate to a Hewlett resident’s doorstep,” said Nassau County DA Anne Donnelly. “No one should ever have to live in fear in Nassau County because of their religion, ethnicity, or beliefs. My Hate Crimes Unit will vigorously prosecute instances of hate-based violence, seek prison sentences when appropriate, and continue to promote tolerance through our educational programs and partnerships.”