NAACP: Beating Of WSU Student Was Racially Motivated

DETROIT (WWJ) - The Oakland County Branch of the NAACP says it wants justice for a 25-year-old Wayne State University student who they say was beaten in an incident of racial intimidation.

Steven Harris was beaten outside of his friend's home in West Bloomfield last spring.  He said two young men of Chaldean decent shouted racial slurs as they attacked.

Harris' attorney, Judith Gracey, said police were slow in investigating the case and ultimately bringing charges.

"There was some discussion that the reason for the delay in bringing the matter to justice, nearly 10 months of a delay, was due to a procedural error," said Grace. "However, we absolutely refute that."

According to Gwen Thomas of the NAACP, two men were eventually charged in the case. In addition, she said West Bloomfield police have made a promise.

"I'm glad to say that I had a very thorough discussion with our chief of police and he has agreed to hold professional development workshops with his staff," said Thomas. "The NAACP is in the process of providing professional recommendations for additional diversity and sensitivity training with his staff."

The two men are expected in court on assault charges later this month.