Recently released surveillance video appears to show a man punching a woman from behind at the emergency room desk at Beaumont Hospital in Dearborn, Mich., according to CBS News.
The footage captured the 19-year-old woman, who wore a dark blue head covering identifying her as a Muslim, talking to a hospital employee at the ER desk on Feb. 10. Less than five seconds after she stepped to the desk, a man approached her from behind and began striking her with his fist, according to The Detroit News.
Hospital staff immediately went to the woman's aid, and the suspect, 57-year-old John Deliz, was arrested and charged with assault.
The victim recently filed a lawsuit alleging the attack may not have occurred if hospital officials had properly monitored Mr. Deliz. Police records show he was warned about harassing others in the hospital lobby before the attack occurred, according to The Detroit News.
Majed Moughni, the victim's attorney, told CBS News the attack might have been religiously motivated.
"Certainly, after watching the video, and hearing my client's version of events, the circumstantial evidence would lead one to conclude that the attack was religiously motivated," Mr. Moughni told CBS News. "There were five people in the lobby and my client was the only one who wore the hijab."
Mr. Deliz admitted in court that he had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia and that he had not been taking his medications, according to Mr. Moughni.
"The hospital was aware of his condition as he was brought because he needed mental treatment. Instead of treating him, they discharged him into the ER waiting room," Mr. Moughni told CBS. "Instead of giving him mental treatment, they put him back in the patient pool, thereby giving way to his attack."
In a statement to The Detroit News, Beaumont Hospital said it takes security seriously and security personnel responded quickly in this case.
"Beaumont security personnel responded immediately and took action to protect the patient and others in the emergency room," the hospital said. "Dearborn Police were contacted and Beaumont staff cooperated fully in the investigation. We take pride in our service to this diverse community and want all patients to feel welcome at Beaumont."
Mr. Deliz remains in custody. His next court appearance is scheduled in May.
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