State Rep. Speaks For First Time Since Being Physically Attacked In Hartford

HARTFORD/WINDSOR, CT — Speaking for the first time since a frightening attack in Hartford June 28, state Rep. Maryam Khan, D-Windsor, said she was the victim of an "attempted sexual assault" and a "violent physical assault."

In a statement released Wedensday, Khan said the incident left her with "multiple physical injuries" and "it has taken an emotional toll on me and my family and children — who witnessed the attack and were in harm's way."

Khan, the first Muslim to serve in the state House of Representatives, was brutally attacked at the XL Center in what is being probed as a possible hate crime.

She, her sister, a friend, and her three children were attending Eid-al-Adha prayers at the Xl Center on one of the Muslim religion's holiest days.

Reportedly, the suspect approached Khan's group, made vulgar and obscene remarks and then grabbed and struck Khan before throwing her to the ground.

Ultimately, the suspect Andrey Desmond, 30, of New Britain — was charged by Hartford police with second-degree unlawful restraint; third-degree assault; second-degree breach of peace; and interfering with police.

He is still being held on $250,000 bond, according to online court records, and will appear next in Hartford Superior Court July 17.

All four of his charges are misdemeanor charges.

Khan, who serves the 5th Connecticut House District, which includes Windsor, South Windsor and Hartford, commended and thanked bystanders who intervened in the attack and allowed for police to catch the suspect.

"I am immensely grateful to the courageous men who came to my aid and helped apprehend the attacker until the police arrived," Khan said.

"Their courage and tenacity in those moments helped to save my life, the lives of my children and many other Muslim women and children that were still inside the XL center.

"I am on a long journey of physical and emotional healing and I ask for your grace during this time."

Meanwhile, Khan expressed concern about what she claimed was a "lack of security" at the large Muslim gathering that day.

" I appreciate all those who have reached out and sent messages to me of their unwavering support," Khan said.

Khan's attack drew universal condemnation last week, with political leaders on both sides of the political aisle offering words of support for the Democrat.

From June 29: 'State Rep. Assaulted In Possible Hate Crime In Hartford: Reports'