A man in Dania Beach was arrested by Broward Sheriff’s deputies after a video surfaced showing him assaulting a 71-year-old woman. The man, identified as 31-year-old Manuel Collazo Diago, was charged with battery on a person 65 or older and taken into custody.
The incident took place near Southwest 9th Street and Southwest 4th Avenue, as captured on the videos that led to Diago’s arrest. The victim reported that she had found a small dog in front of her home, which she knew belonged to Diago. She then went to his trailer to return the dog.
However, things took a violent turn as Diago allegedly pushed the elderly woman to the ground and began attacking her. The victim described how he punched her in the face and all over her body, dragged her by her hair, and pushed her face against the concrete. Diago even threatened to kill her during the assault.
In a particularly disturbing moment, Diago picked up a rock and attempted to hit the woman with it. He then bit her hand, causing a break in the skin, and tried to force her head into a puddle of water. Fortunately, the victim’s screams were heard by bystanders who intervened, prompting Diago to retreat into his trailer before being apprehended by law enforcement.
This shocking incident highlights the vulnerability of the elderly in our communities and the importance of stepping in to help those in need. It serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and look out for one another, especially the elderly who may be more susceptible to such acts of violence.
As the case develops, it is crucial to support the victim and ensure that justice is served for the traumatic experience she endured. Acts of violence, especially against vulnerable members of society, cannot be tolerated, and it is up to law enforcement and the community to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
Stay tuned to NBC6 for any further updates on this case as it unfolds and continues to shed light on the importance of standing up against violence and protecting those who are most at risk in our neighborhoods.