On July 30, a judge in the Criminal Division of the New York State Supreme Court sentenced Assamad Nash to 30 years in prison for the brutal murder of a Korean-American woman in Chinatown two years ago.
The prosecutor, Dafna Yoran, detailed the events of the case to the court and the crowded audience. On February 13, 2022, at 4:20 AM, Christina Yuna Lee, a 35-year-old Korean-American resident of Chinatown, was followed into her apartment and viciously killed by Nash after returning home from a gathering with friends. Despite Lee’s attempt to defend herself with a knife, Nash managed to enter her apartment and fatally stabbed her.
Neighbors who heard cries for help called 911, leading the police to the scene minutes later. Unable to open Lee’s door, they found Nash attempting to flee through a fire escape but returning to the apartment upon seeing a police officer on the roof. Eventually, the police broke in at 5:40 AM and discovered Lee lying in a pool of blood with over 40 stab wounds to her abdomen, neck, and torso. Nash was found hiding under the bed.
Lee, a creative producer active in the Asian-American community, was mourned by her father and aunt in court. They expressed anguish over the senseless tragedy that befell their kind and cheerful daughter, leaving a lasting impact not only on their family but also on the entire Asian community and women in general.
Following the prosecutor’s statements, Nash and his lawyer remained silent when asked by the judge if they had anything to say. Subsequently, Judge Laura Ward sentenced Nash to 30 years to life in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of second-degree murder and one count of first-degree burglary with a sexual motive.
“Christina Yuna Lee was a creative, kind, and happy person whose passing has devastated her family and left a lasting impact on the community,” said Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg Jr. in a statement. “I hope the conclusion of this case brings some comfort and justice to all those affected by Ms. Lee’s life and the tragedy that occurred.”
After the sentencing, over a dozen representatives from Asian-American communities and organizations held a press conference outside the courtroom, emphasizing the importance of public safety and combating hate crimes against Asians. This case serves as a stark reminder of the need to address such issues and ensure justice for victims of heinous crimes.