Satendar Singh

On July 1, 2007 Satendar Singh was with friends at Lake Natoma, east of Sacramento, California.  A group harassed him and his friends with anti-gay and racist remarks.  He was punched, slipped into a coma and died July 5, 2007.

Two men have been charged - one for involuntary manslaughter and hate crimes (he fled the country) and one for hate crimes.

breaking news - Aleksandr Shevchenko, the man charged as part of the Satendar Singh hate crime incident is sentenced to 150 days in county jail.  Aug 1, 2008.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

1.  Who was Satendar Singh and why is his death significant?

Satendar Singh was a native of Fiji.  At age 19 he immigrated to the USA and lived with relatives in the Sacramento, California area.  He worked at an AT&T call center.  He was well liked by both his co-workers and friends.

On Sunday afternoon July 1, 2007 he and 6 friends, reportedly 3 couples of Indian and Fijian descent, were partying at a California State park at Lake Natoma, east of Sacramento.  Trouble broke out between Singh's group and another group, reportedly Russian speaking and of Russian descent.  Verbal assaults were traded between the groups.  The Russian group allegedly made racist and homophobic comments to Singh's group and singled him out for homophobic comments.

About 8pm that evening as Singh's group was leaving, the men of the Russian group confronted Singh's group in the parking lot.  During the confrontation one man punched Satendar Singh in the face and Singh fell backward hitting his head.  Singh slipped into a coma never to regain consciousness. Four days later on July 5, 2007, family removed Satendar Singh from life support and he died.

A month later the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department charged 2 suspects.  One suspect was arrested for hate crimes.  The other suspect, charged with involuntary manslaughter and hate crimes, was not arrested as he had fled the country.

This case is important for Sacramento and the USA because it is a hate crime.  It points out that hate crime still exists and we must continue to work to eliminate it.  Keeping the case in the news allows us to educate people, press for reforms and promote anti hate crime legislation.  Sacramento, California has been touted as one of America's most diverse communities.  If it can happen here, it can and will happen anywhere.

This case has particularly galvanized the Sacramento gay and Asian communities.

2.  Why is his name spelled both Satendar and Satender?

His name appears in the news as both Satendar and Satender.  His family spells it both ways.

He is also called Satend.

3.  Was Satendar Singh gay?

Initial newspaper reports stated Satendar Singh was not gay and later newspaper reports reported him as gay with his family and friends accepting him.

The important thing here is that he was perceived as gay and therefore harassed.

4.  Who is following this case?

The local gay and Asian communities are following this case closely.  An action group has formed called the Satendar Justice Coalition (see their email news reports below).  There is a yahoo group for disseminating information. 

5.  Where can I get more information?

Yahoo group "Satendar" - Satendar Justice Coalition  www.satendar.org  or  groups.yahoo.com/group/Satendar

Satendar Justice Coalition www.qcrew.com

This page you are currently viewing:  www.satendar.com  or  www.outsacramento.com/Satendar_Singh.htm

For information on court dates for suspect "Aleksandr Shevchenko" click https://services.saccourt.com/indexsearchnew/CaseNumberList.aspx?SearchValues=SHEVCHENKO,ALEKSANDR,,3656250 

Superior Court of California, Sacramento County www.saccourt.com

6.  How much publicity is the case getting?

This case got a lot of exposure on all the local television channels and in the local newspaper, the Sacramento Bee.  Significant objective reports aired or were published the week of the incident and when the one suspect was arrested and arraigned.

The Sacramento Bee has published editorials condemning the acts.

The case has hardly rippled outside the Sacramento area, with a few reports in San Francisco Bay Area media, national gay news web sites and world Indian and Southeast Asian web sites.

See Internet links below for all the media links.

7.  Why are the witnesses quiet?

Satendar Singh's group has remained mostly silent about the incident.  The Sacramento Sheriff has requested that they not comment so as to not jeopardize the case.  They may also fear retribution.

The families of the 2 suspects have spoken on television and talked to reporters.  They made some inflammatory and questionable statements after the arrest but now are silent.  Likely their defense lawyers asked them not to further comment.

There is at least one third party witness, a man that called 911 to report the afternoon confrontation. 

8.  Why were only 2 men arrested?

Reports say there were 6 in the group, men, women and children, taunting Singh's party during the afternoon, then the women and children left and more men arrived.  Only 2 men have been charged with crimes.  Some people wonder if there were more than two perpetrators at the scene or conspirators that shielded the suspects during the man hunt.

9.  What happened that day?

Hopefully the true story of that day will emerge in court. 

10.  Is there a link between this violence and the local Russian/Ukraine/Slavic religious communities?

The local Russian/Ukraine/Slavic religious communities have become very vocal against the gay community and gay equality.  They have sent protestors and pickets to gay events including Sacramento Gay Pride, Sacramento Rainbow Festival, Day of Silence at local high schools, local high school administrator's homes and the State Capitol when bills involving gay issues are being debated and voted on.  They have posted comments to local news stories denouncing gays.

Some people wonder if there is a link between the teachings of these churches and the violent anti-gay attack.

For a good background article on the Slavic evangelicals and gays in Sacramento, read this article in the LA Times:

11.  Photos

  Satendar Singh

  A button worn my his supporters at the trials.

More photos are at www.satendar.org

If you would like to contribute to this FAQ and page, contact Mark mark@outsacramento.com

Update:  May 28, 2008

Vigil held July 6, 2007

WORLD PEACE MEMORIAL FOR OUR FRIEND SATENDAR SINGH

Friday July 6 at World Peace Memorial Rose Garden Capitol Park

A vigil was held July 6, 2007 at Capitol Park.  Friends, religious leaders, community leaders,  local politicians and the community gathered to remember Satendar Singh and talk of unity.  Video.

Quotes

• "Here is what we pledge tonight as Sacramentans - we will not tolerate hate, hate speech or violence in any form against the gay and lesbian community or any community of Sacramento."  - Darrell Steinberg, California State Senator, July 6, 2007

• "You have a right to express your opinion by the Constitution, but you do not have the right to threaten another person or take physical action that can bring harm to them." - Sheriff John McGinnes, August 7, 2007.

Death notice published July 12, 2007 in the Sacramento Bee

SINGH, Satender
(Simmon Nicolas Johal)
With profound sorrow, we announce the untimely and tragic passing away of our beloved, Satender Singh (7/21/1980-7/5/2007). Satender's ability to make everybody feel special was commendable. He accomplished this with his warm smile, humble nature and sincere affection. Seven years ago, he left his immediate relatives his native Fiji, in pursuit of the American dream, settling in Sacramento. Satender is survived by his father, Jaswant Singh; mother, Akesa Singh; elder brother, Shalender Singh; sister-in-law, nephew and a niece and a large extended family. In Sacramento, his grandmother, Chand K. Johal; cousin, Shalvin Johal; uncle, Camie Bhuie and aunt, Suvin K. Bhuie invite you to attend the memorial services to be held on Friday, July 13, 2007 at 4:00pm at Lombard & Company, 1550 Fulton Ave, Sacramento, CA 95825. His remains shall be flown to Fiji, where the last rites of the funeral shall be performed. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to US BANK, Satender Singh Memorial Trust Fund, Account #153459001712.

Death notice published July 12, 2007 in the Sacramento Bee.
 

Sacramento County Sheriff reports

Suspect Arrested In Satendar Singh Case

Press Release 8/7/2007

http://sacsheriff.com/media/0807_arrest.cfm

On July 1, 2007, 25-year-old Satendar Singh was involved in an altercation at Lake Natoma State Park. On July 5, 2007, Satendar died as a result of the injuries he suffered from the altercation.

After an exhaustive investigation and interviews of numerous witnesses, Sacramento Sheriff’s Homicide Detectives were able to identify the involved parties. On August 6, 2007, Homicide Detectives arrested Sacramento resident Aleksandr SHEVCHENKO (22) for Penal Code 422.7- intimidating and interfering with victim’s rights.

There is an outstanding arrest warrant for West Sacramento resident Andrey VUSIK (29) for intimidating and interfering with victim’s rights and involuntary manslaughter-non vehicular. It is believed that VUSIK has left the United States.

SHEVCHENKO was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail and is being held on $25,000.00 bail. He is scheduled to appear on August 8 2007, in Department 61 at 1:30 p.m.

Sheriff’s detectives are urging anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Andrey VUSIK to please call 874-5115.

Sergeant Tim Curran,
Sheriff's Spokesman

Sheriff’s Detectives Take Lead Role In Investigation

Press release 7/5/2007

http://www.sacsheriff.com/media/0703_leadrole.cfm

On July 1, 2007, shortly before 9:00 p.m. California State Park Rangers responded to a call for service at Lake Natoma State Park involving an altercation with injuries.

When the Rangers arrived at the scene, the victim, a 25-year old East Indian, male was being loaded into an ambulance to be transported to a local hospital where he remains in critical condition.

When they were notified the victim may not recover from his injuries (and because the incident occurred within the unincorporated area of Sacramento County) State Park Rangers contacted the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department seeking our assistance in the investigation.

As of 4:00 p.m. today, Sheriff’s Homicide detectives had taken over the case and assumed the lead role in the investigation.

Sheriff’s detectives believe the victim was injured during a physical altercation that resulted from a day-long verbal confrontation between groups of Russians and East Indians. The Russians were seen leaving the area in two vehicles: a dark green four-door sedan (no further description) and a Red Mitsubishi (no further description) with a red DMV number “7” sticker affixed to the rear window.

Sheriff’s detectives are urging anyone involved in, a witnessed to, or with information about, the altercation to please call 874-5115.

Update - July 5, 2007
On July 5, 2007, at 4:55 p.m. Satendar Singh died as a result of the injuries he suffered during a physical altercation at Lake Natoma State Park on July 1, 2007.

Sheriff’s Homicide investigators have interviewed several witnesses but have been unable to identify any members of the Russian group with which the verbal and physical altercations took place.

Investigators continue to urge anyone with information about this case to call the Sheriff’s Department at (916) 874-5115 or Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.00.

Sergeant Tim Curran,
Sheriff's Spokesman

Suspects

Trial of Aleksandr Shevchenko

The Trial of Aleksandr Shevchenko

The official trial calendar for the case can be found here for the Superior Court of California, County of Sacramento.

The trial of Aleksandr Shevchenko started Wednesday May 21, 2008.  He is charged with one count of 415 (disturbing the peace, challenge to a fight, words that may cause a fight) and one count 240 (simple assault) and with "hate crime" enhancement charges on both counts.

These are my notes on the trial.  I am not a lawyer, errors, omissions and misrepresentations are my bad.  I plan to attend as much of the trial as I can.  The judge estimated the trial will last until June 20.  In addition to posting here, I will post to Yahoo Group Satendar www.groups.yahoo.com/group/satendar   www.satendar.org  

Today Mrs. Naidu finished testimony and Mr. Naidu began his testimony.

Court adjourned at noon, will reconvene Monday 9am.

Wednesday June 4, 2008

trial continues

Thursday June 5, 2008 - by Keith

Testimony of non-related witnesses was this afternoon.

Trial will continue on MONDAY, June 9, 2008 at 9:00am. Department 32, fifth floor, California Superior Court, Sacramento County.

No buttons, shirts with slogans or other items bearing an indication of affiliation are permitted.

I was the only person there for Satendar as far as I know.

Monday June 9, 2008

trial continues

Tuesday June 10, 2008 - notes from Charlie

Prosecution has rested its case.  Defense is not calling any witnesses.  Defense has rested its case.

Final arguments are scheduled to begin Thursday June 12.

Wednesday June 11, 2008

trial not in session

Thursday June 12, 2008

Closing arguments.

Prosecuting attorney went over the 3 charges:

Count 1 - 415 - Disturbing the Peace - Challenge to fight in a public place

Count 1 - 422.7 - "Hate Crime" bias - enhancement to Count 1

Count 2 - 240 - Simple Assault

The Prosecuting attorney admits the Fiji group was dancing inappropriately and hurled slurs but wants the jury to focus on the Russian group's decision to fight and use the word faggot. 

The Defense attorney tried to discredit the Fiji group's testimony by pointing out inconsistencies with testimonies.  He suggested the Fiji group "egged on" the fights, the Russian group reacted because of the Fiji group's inappropriate behavior not perceived sexuality and the beer bottle was thrown in self defense.

The judge gave lengthy instructions to the jury and the jury began deliberation about 3pm.

The audience was sparse during the 3 weeks of trial but today the audience fluctuated between 10 to 20 people.

The court was aware of the notoriety of the case.  The judge repeatedly warned the audience to not talk around the jury for fear of causing a mistrial (fair warning), scrutinized the audience for buttons and warned the audience not to disrupt the proceedings.  During the jury instructions, the judge said the trial attracted an audience, you've seen on many days the same faces but they are not chosen, impartial or here every day and don't consider public opinion, sympathy, prejudice or bias during your deliberation.

The Defense attorney during closing arguments said the case was "politically charged" and you see the "activists in the court."  He also mentioned the "media circus" in July of 2007.

Friday June 13, 2008

jury deliberation

Monday June 16, 2008

jury deliberation

Tuesday June 17, 2008 - notes from Charlie

jury deliberation

Wednesday June 18, 2008 - notes from Charlie

jury deliberation

Aleksandr Shevchenko was found guilty today, approximately at noon, of both misdemeanor accounts disturbing the peace, but the jury was unable to reach a verdict on the hate crime enhancements, and were hung 7-5 in favor of guilty.  Aleksandr Shevchenko , was dismissed from the court today and ordered to appear again at 1:30 On July 11th for sentencing, but as I understand it, he will be placed on probation.

Friday August 1, 2008

Aleksandr Shevchenko was sentenced today to 150 days in county jail for his participation in the events that lead to Satendar Singh’s death last July 2007.

The small crowd of observers from the gay and Asian communities was surprised at the judge’s stiff sentence. Although disappointed that he was not convicted of hate crime, the jail time was a relief that he was not let go with a slap on the wrist.

To recount the charges against Shevchenko, he was charged with

1 count disturbing the peace, challenging another person in a public place to fight, punishable by up to 90 days county jail

1 count simple assault, punishable by up to 180 days in county jail

1 count of hate crime, punishable by up to 1 year in state prison.

On June 18, the jury found him guilty of the first 2 counts, both misdemeanors but deadlocked 5 to 7 on the hate crime felony.

Today, August 1, 2008, was sentencing day and Judge Gary S. Mullen heard arguments from defense and prosecuting attorneys about what his sentence should be.

Defense Attorney Michael Long requested that Shevchenko receive a reduced sentence, less than 90 days, in a work release program so that he could maintain his recently acquired job. Defense argued that he had been punished enough by the media, specifically local TV, the Sacramento Bee, LA Times, and alternate lifestyle newspapers, losing his job, his 12 months of unemployment, and the thousands of dollars spent by his family trying to secure attorneys. Defense said Shevchenko also suffered because he will forever be linked to the man that threw the punch, hate crime, hating homosexuals and local Russian churches.  Defense said he had no priors except a fishing violation.

Defense rehashed third party testimony about how the 2 groups, so called “Fijian” and “Russian” groups verbally battled through the day.

He admitted both sides could have changed the outcome of that day.

Prosecuting Attorney Sean Laird reminded the judge that 12 jurors quickly found Shevchenko guilty of the first 2 counts. He said that during the second incident 5 to 6 Russians provoked the confrontation as described by third party witnesses. Prosecution also said the court could weight the fact that Satendar Singh was dead and 7 out of 12 jurors believed it was a hate crime. He asked for a substantial part of the sentence and diversity counseling.

He admitted both sides exercised poor judgment.

Judge Mullen then spoke. He said the case involved “misperceptions,” that it was not a one sided hate crime like the “tragic Wyoming case,” and acknowledged the interest by the gay community and other interested citizens.

Then he ticked off things that influenced his thinking: none of the Fijian group testified that Satendar was gay, the Fijian group consumed a lot of alcohol and the sexually lewd behavior and drunkenness of members of the Fijian group. When he described the first incident he condemned the Fijian group for starting and escalating the verbal insults, using fighting words, dancing dirty, not toning down their behavior when asked and the public drunkenness. He said Satendar and members of the Fijian group were violating the laws of lewd behavior and public drunkenness.

Then Judge Mullen described the second incident. He said after 3 to 4 hours instead of cooling off or leaving the park the Russian group called in reinforcements and began the confrontation. He felt the Russian group wanted to humiliate the Fijian group. He felt Shevchenko did not let it go.

Judge Mullen praised the “large Fijian” for trying to defuse the second confrontation.

But Judge Mullen felt that Shevchenko played a large part in the final confrontation and for that swiftly pronounced the sentence – 3 years probation and 150 days in county jail. He said it was not a "classic hate crime" and did not prescribe diversity counseling.

I think everyone was stunned- attorneys, gallery and especially the defendant.

Defense Attorney Long requested that Shevchenko remain free for 1 or 2 weeks to get his life in order before starting the jail sentence.

Judge Mullen said no. Shevchenko was handcuffed and led out, court was adjourned.

The following news media was there: TV channel 3 with Dave Walker, channel 13, the Sacramento Bee, radio KFBK and Outword Newsmagazine.

One curious note, the judge told the media not to photograph the audience in the court room because they have a right to be anonymous.

http://www.sacbee.com/101/story/1024340.html

Satendar Justice Coalition

Satendar Justice Coalition

Information emails

7-6-2007

JOIN US TONIGHT FOR A WORLD PEACE MEMORIAL FOR OUR FRIEND SATENDAR

The family and friends of Satendar are in our thoughts, if only we could all act with love and kindness... please join us tonight to bring our community together and to educate ourselves in order to prevent this sort of tragedy.
 

TONIGHT - FRIDAY, JULY 6 @ 8 PM
World Peace Memorial Rose Garden
Capitol Park (15th Street and Capitol Avenue)
 
Please Join Sacramento's diverse communities as we gather to show our solidarity and mourn the tragic death of Satendar Singh, the 26 year old man who was assaulted during a possible hate crime at Lake Natoma this past Sunday. Satendar was taken off life support late yesterday afternoon. While the actual details of the case have not been officially released, witnesses are reporting that Satendar was targeted for violence because of his perceived race and sexual orientation.
 
This gathering will be an opportunity to hear from community leaders about the plan to make sure this case is fully investigated and how to prevent these types of incidents from happening again to people in our communities.
 
The family of Satendar will hold a memorial service in the near future and request you show your support there as well.
 
 
This event is being coordinated by (partial list):
 
State Senator Darrell Steinberg, Co-Chair, Capital Unity Council
 
Basim Elkarra, Executive Director, CAIR (Council on American Islamic Relations)
 
Jerry Chong, Chief Legal Council to CAPITAL
 
Wendy Rae Hill, President, Sacramento Chapter of National Organization of Women
 
Ed Bennett, President, Sacramento Stonewall Democrats
 
Dr. David Thompson, Chair, Interfaith Service Bureau
 
Pam Whitely, President, PFLAG
 
Please note: The California Highway Patrol prohibits candles in the park...it is against the law, but flashlights, light sticks, etc are ok.

7-20-2007

SATENDAR JUSTICE COALITION REPORT OF ACTION:

Representatives from the Satendar Justice Coalition met with Sheriff John McGinness on Tuesday, July 17 regarding the Satendar Singh alleged Hate Crime murder investigation. As a reminder, the Coalition was created in the wake of Satendar’s death, and consists of people representing the LGBT, African American, Muslim, Sikh, Faith leaders, and API leaders, among others. The group walked away from the meeting with renewed confidence that the Sherriff was treating this investigation with the importance that it deserves.

Sheriff McGinness assured the group that his department was aggressively investigating the crime. They are placing a great deal of emphasis, from various resources in the sheriff's department, on the case. We felt that Sheriff McGinness understood the importance of this investigation to the LGBT community. We voiced our concerns and our fears and felt that he was sympathetic to our needs and that he will do all in his power to ensure a positive outcome in this case. In addition, we are encouraged by his understanding and acknowledgement of the escalating volatility of anti-gay protests by members of the Slavic fundamentalist community. Sheriff McGinness expressed his willingness to meet with the Slavic fundamentalist ministers and other leaders from that community to dissuade them from continuing to engage in the kind of rhetoric that incites people to overstep the bounds of civility and decency as they participate in their newly acquired freedom of expression.

It is vital, at this time, that we avoid any action, such as protesting or retaliating against the perceived perpetrators, that could hinder the investigation. Crimes where a Hate Crime statute may be invoked are very fragile and actions from the community at large can prove detrimental. The various LGBT leaders are asking for your patience while the investigation continues. We don't want to threaten the support we are getting from the larger community by acting out of anger. We are working to ensure that justice is served and we are working to ensure that the LGBT community, or any minority community, in Sacramento, will never face this kind of hatred and violence again. Sheriff McGinness has pledged his support in our efforts. The next step is a meeting with District Attorney Jan Scully, on Monday, July 23rd, where we will voice the concerns of our communities at large.

Investigators continue to urge anyone with information about this case to call the Sheriff’s Department at (916) 874-5115 or Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP. Callers can remain anonymous.

This report received from the Uptown Studios Community Update 7-20-07 email list.  www.qcrew.org

The initial Bee story can be found here:  http://uptown.c.topica.com/maahnnmabAstkbJbP1Ab/

8-31-2007

Linda Ng 916.996.3770 Tom Bhe 916.355.4159 Lngjmh@sbcglobal.net www.ocasacramento.org

A Community United: Responding to the Message of Hate Free and Open to Public Reception • Panel Discussion • Question & Answer Session Alice Wong Attorney at Law Moderator Panelists Attorney at Law Basim Elkarra Executive Director of Council on American-Islamic Relations

Ed Bennet President of the Stonewall Democratic Club Jerry Chong Brian Louie Georgette Imura Chair Satandar Justice Coalition

Reporting Hate Crimes

Reporting Hate Crimes

courtesy of the Satendar Justice Coalition

CRIMES IN CITY OF SACRAMENTO

Sacramento Police Department
Emergencies 911 or 732-0100
TTD for Hearing Impaired 911 or 732-0110
Bias & Hate Crime Hotline 916. 808-2427
Reports Filing by Telephone 916. 264-5868
Reports Filing TTD 916. 808-0639
Non-Emergency Response 916. 264-5471
 

 
CRIMES IN COUNTY OF SACRAMENTO

 
Sacramento County Sheriff
Hate Crime Reporting 916.875.8811
E-mail Bias Crimes Unit ryen@sacsheriff.com
Emergencies 911
Sheriff's Non-Emergency 916. 874-5115
 

 
Please take the time to report hate "incidents," such as drive-by
name calling, throwing of objects, spitting or other inappropriate
behaviors that are committed against you or others. Gather information
such as what the person(s) looked like, what type of vehicle, date
and time, what was said or done that is the suspected behavior.
Bias & Hate Crime Hotline 916. 808-2427
TAKE THE TIME TO COMPLETE THE ONLINE FORM:
www.sacpd.org/crime_reports/start-report.asp

Internet links

Local media links:

Great news video at fox40.com July 21, 2007, note you have to look for the video on the list "7/21 - Sacramento Diversity Summit"  http://fox40.trb.com/

Sunday July 22, 2007, the SacBee.com (free subscription required) publishes 3 prominent stories:

http://www.sacbee.com/101/story/285714.html

http://www.sacbee.com/110/story/283945.html

Marcos Bretón: Community has stake in finding killer

http://www.sacbee.com/breton/story/285405.html

- - - - -

CAPITAL,  Council of Asian Pacific Islanders Together for Advocacy and Leadership, met Saturday July 21, 2007 to discuss hate crime and the Satendar Singh crime.  Although it made the News 10 tv news, there is not a story on their site.   http://www.sactocapital.org/

Memorial Held For Victim Of Possible Triple Hate Crime at gaysonoma.com 12 Jul 2007

http://www.gaysonoma.com/displaynews.php?subaction=showfull&id=1184290905&archive=&start_from=&ucat=8&

at SacBee.com July 21.2007 http://www.sacbee.com/110/story/284021.html

 at SacBee.com July 21, 2007 http://www.sacbee.com/101/story/284591.html

911 Call May Have Saved Beaten Man's Life July 19, 2007 at cbs13.com http://cbs13.com/local/local_story_200080509.html

911 call preceded death

Witness was alarmed hours before scuffle at Lake Natoma on July 1 that ended in death of man, 26.

at Sacbee.com July 18, 2007  http://www.sacbee.com/101/story/278352.html

911 call failed to stop attack that killed man
at kseq.com Palm Springs July 18, 2007  http://www.kesq.com/Global/story.asp?S=6807408&nav=9qrx

Race for '08: Edwards' wife says local homicide illustrates danger of hate speech
The Sacramento Bee Sun, 15 Jul 2007 0:18 AM PDT
Elizabeth Edwards said Saturday she is troubled by the suspected anti-gay beating death of a Sacramento man, and said the killing of Satender Singh demands renewed condemnations of hate speech in America.

Edwards Decries Sacramento Man's Beating Death at fox40.com July 14, 2007 http://fox40.trb.com/news/ktxl-071407edwards,0,4553810.story?coll=ktxl-home-1

Elizabeth Edwards Decries Death Of Sacrameto Man at cbs13.com July 14, 2007 http://cbs13.com/topstories/local_story_195201342.html

Yellow journalism at the Bee?
By CoolDMZ
I'm wondering what other people think about the Bee's stirring article yesterday on "wounds that have festered for some time between Sacramento's gay community and members of the Slavic evangelical community," brought to clearer light ...

 
The Sac Rag - http://sacrag.com

Edwards Decries Sacramento Man's Beating Death
FOX 40 Sacramento Sat, 14 Jul 2007 4:47 PM PDT
SACRAMENTO — Elizabeth Edwards reiterated her support for gay marriage in a speech Saturday, saying the idea that it threatens heterosexual marriage is "complete nonsense."

Outword Magazine  www.outwordnewsmagazine.com July 12 issue, download as pdf http://outwordmagazine.com/main/downloads/340_7-12-07_web.pdf

Death by Gay Bashing in Sacramento  at sacramentofordemocracy.org July 11, 2007, http://sacramentofordemocracy.org/?q=node/view/7621

Man dies after assault at Lake Natoma park at folsomtelegraph.com July 10, 2007

http://folsomtelegraph.com/articles/2007/07/11/news/top_stories/04natoma.txt

Loved Ones Remember Man Beaten At Lake Natoma at cbs13.com July 6, 2007. 

cbs13.com/topstories/

local_story_186232137.html

The vigil was video taped by Nate Feldman and posted at Google video

video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-10598370163019630&pr=goog-sl

Possible Hate Crime Victim Dies

News10.net July 5, 2007.

www.news10.net/display_story.aspx?storyid=29973

Lake Natoma Beating Victim Dies From Injuries

KCRA.com July 5, 2007.

www.kcra.com/news/13618318/detail.html#  

Lake Natoma Beating Investigated As Possible Hate Crime

Man was at Lake Natoma with friends when they were harassed by "Russian" men, called racist and homophobic names, beaten near death
From Channel 3 News, Tuesday, July 3. Satendar Singh, 26, is in a coma with internal bleeding and severe brain damage after he was critically  injured at Lake Natoma Sunday night. The case is being investigated as a hate crime by the Sacramento County Sherrif's Department.
www.kcra.com/video/13618364/index.html
  

Man Clings To Life After Brutal Beating at cbs13.com July 4, 2007 cbs13.com/topstories/

local_story_185070806.html

http://www.myspace.com/satendar

Commentary:

Podcast:  SBA44: Finger Banging Carnie Wilson Is A Hate Crime at rainbowpodsquad.wordpress.com SpankingBeArthur.com July 20, 2007  rainbowpodsquad.wordpress.com/2007/07/20/sba44-finger-banging-carnie-wilson-is-a-hate-crime/

Billo's Lunacy at d-day.blogspot.com July 17, 2007  http://d-day.blogspot.com/2007/07/billos-lunacy.html

From the Editor: Hatred leads to death

at RespectSacramento.com July 9, 2007

respectsacramento.org/070709enews.html

Sacramento Stonewall Democrats release a letter to the community regarding the Satendar Singh incident urging patience while the facts are learned but prosecution to the full extent of the law of the perpetrators.  Read the letter here.

Background:

For a good background article on the Slavic evangelicals and gays in Sacramento, read this article in the LA Times:

For Gays, a Loud New Foe

The Latvian Connection
West Coast Anti-Gay Movement on the March
at the Southern Poverty Law Center web site splcenter.org, date unknown,

http://www.splcenter.org/intel/intelreport/article.jsp?aid=809

Links from outside the Sacramento area: 

“We will not settle for tolerance alone”

Killing of a homosexual man becomes an organizing tool for those pushing hate-crimes legislation.

at California Catholic Daily August 21, 2007

http://www.calcatholic.com/news/newsArticle.aspx?id=7a0bf643-436a-4f61-bb12-1f248b4564d7

Stories Clash in Hate Crime Death

at topix.com, continuing discussions

http://www.topix.com/forum/news/gay/THKND87N1IA3QOOEV
  

Sacramento authorities charge two men in killing of Satender Singh

JewsOnFirst.org, August 8, 2007
http://www.jewsonfirst.org/07c/sacto_murder_update.html

 http://www.gay.com/news/article.html?2007/08/09/4

Russian Pentecostals hunt gays in US - daily at www.interfax-religion.com July 31, 2007 http://www.interfax-religion.com/?act=news&div=3413

Billo's Lunacy at d-day.blogspot.com July 17, 2007  http://d-day.blogspot.com/2007/07/billos-lunacy.html

http://www.sepiamutiny.com/sepia/archives/004580.html

Young Fiji Indian Killed in Alleged Hate Crime Incident at indiawest.com July 12, 2007  indiawest.com/view.php?subaction=showfull&id=1184265905&archive=&start_from=&ucat=11

Elizabeth Edwards Decries Beating Death of Sacramento Man at biggaynews.com July 16,2007

http://biggaynews.com/?p=611#comment-2280

Elizabeth Edwards Calls For Tougher Hate Crime Laws
During her speech to the gay rights group, the Associated Press reports that Edwards cited the story of 26-year-old Satendar Singh--who died recently after being beaten to death at Sacramento's Lake Natomas by men hurling explicit gay ...

Elizabeth Edwards decries beating death of Sacramento man at sfgate.com July 14, 2007 http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2007/07/14/state/n162444D38.DTL&hw=satendar&sn=001&sc=1000

Elizabeth Edwards decries beating death of Sacramento man
KESQ Palm Springs Sat, 14 Jul 2007 4:59 PM PDT
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Elizabeth Edwards is reiterating her support for gay marriage during a visit to California this weekend. Edwards was scheduled to address a prominent gay rights group in San Francisco tonight.

Elizabeth Edwards decries beating death of Sacramento man
KSBY San Luis Obispo Sat, 14 Jul 2007 5:01 PM PDT
Associated Press - July 14, 2007 7:44 PM ET SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Elizabeth Edwards is reiterating her support for gay marriage during a visit to California this weekend.

HAF Expresses Concern Over Alleged Hate Attack, Condoles Death of Satendar Singh, at hinduamericanfoundation.org  July 9, 2007, http://www.hinduamericanfoundation.org/media_press_release_sacramento_fijian.htm  

Young Fiji Indian Killed in Alleged Hate Crime Incident
San Leandro India West - San Leandro,CA,USA
According to various accounts later recounted in the Sacramento Bee, a group of Russian men nearby began directing their comments toward Singh, ...

photos of the vigil at flickr.com flickr.com/search/?q=satendar%20singh%20sacramento&w=all&s=int

at hatecrimesbill.org, click on the Satendar Singh tag  http://www.hatecrimesbill.org/2007/07/vigil-for-saten.html 

hate crime news feed at feeds.feedburner.com, Filter by category: Satendar Singh

http://feeds.feedburner.com/typepad/hatecrimesbill/home

Sikh Victim of Alleged Hate Crime Dies in Sacramento at worldsikhnews.com July 9, 2007.

http://worldsikhnews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=809

at angryasianman.com July 4, 2007

angryasianman.com/2007/07/hate-crime-at-lake-natoma.html

Sacto Man's Death May Have Been Hate Crime, at cbs5.com Bay Area, July 6,

 2007.  cbs5.com/local/local_story_188024907.html

Victim of Alleged Hate Crime Dies

at kcbs.com San Francisco/Oakland/San Jose July 7, 2007

www.kcbs.com/pages/656325.php?contentType=4&contentId=670227

Gay immigrant dies from punch after slurs

gaynewswatch.com

gaynewswatch.com/Page.cfm?PageID=2&STID=60&SID=1788#S1788

Gay Immigrant Man, Satendar Singh, Dies in Sacramento From Brutal Bashing

blog
mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2007/07/gay-immigrant-man-satendar-singh-dies.html

Man Dies After Possible Hate Crime at eqca.org July 6, 2007 at eqca.org July 6, 2007 

eqca.org/site/apps/nl/content2.asp?c=9oINKWMCF&b=40337&ct=4068251

indybay.org/newsitems/2007/07

/08/18434024.php

media

windows users:

• right-click on the link to download the file
• Flash video (.flv file type) can be played with a flash video player, here is one for windows  http://www.martijndevisser.com/blog/flv-player/
• MPEG-4 video can be played by Apple quick time player available at www.apple.com

other incidents