New York State Lawmakers Approve "Granny's Law"

New York.-USA NY1.News

State lawmakers unanimously approved a law Tuesday that toughens penalties for assaults against the elderly.

The so-called "Granny's Law" makes it a felony to assault anyone 65 or older, as long as the attacker is at least ten years younger. The penalty is up to seven years in prison. The measure was introduced in the face of public outcry over the attack last year on a 101-year-old woman in Queens.

A half hour later an 85-year-old woman was also punched in the face and robbed by the same man. Jack Rhodes was charged on numerous counts in connection with the attacks and faces up to 90 years in prison if convicted.