Muslim community knew of Hassan's abuse
Grand Jury will decide if he heads to trial
Updated: Thursday, 19 Feb 2009, 9:48 AM EST
Published : Thursday, 19 Feb 2009, 7:33 AM EST
"Everyone in the Muslim community was aware that she was indeed going through abuse," said Attorney Nadia Shahram."
Although not evident in family pictures, investigators say the 37-year-old mother endured abuse at the hands of her husband, Muzzammil Hassan.
Hassan is accused of beheading his wife last Thursday at Bridges TV in Orchard Park.
He walked into Orchard police headquarters and told them that his wife is dead. "Well, obviously that statement is part of the case and will be part of the proof the prosecution has," said James Harrington, Hassan's Defense Attorney.
Hassan founded Bridges TV following the 9/11 attacks against America. He wanted to dispel stereotypes about Muslims and to bridge cultures.
"We have to make sure act of one Muslim does not create any doubt on the religion of Islam," said Shahram.
Shahram added, "This act has no roots in the religion of Islam. It's just unfortunate that we have a bad practioner of Islam."
Aasiyah had recently filed for divorce and got a court order of protection.
"Divorce means shame for Muslim woman," said Shahram.
When asked if the history of domestic violence will play a role in this case Hassan's defense attorney James Harrington answered, "Yes, sure it will. That is an issue in this case."
Taking a stand against domestic violence is said to be especially difficult for Muslim women. Aasiya's decision may have cost her her life and her husband could spend the rest of his life in prison.
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You know not everybody has the guts to stand up to another person and tell them they are wrong and you are going to report them to the police. Folks don't like getting into other folk business so to speak. I remember getting beat up while a Muslim couple who was downstairs in my living room while I was getting beat up stair. They heard my screams and did nothing. By the time I got away from my Muslim husband. I said Brother help me. He said Sister you are fighting him. I had to fight him off of me. I later learn he was also fought his wife.
ReplyDeleteMy ex husband push me to the point of getting ready to kill him. Think God The Almighty I told my therapist what I had planned to do. She suggested that I call the YWCA HOtline and go to their shelter. She reminded me that I could go to jail for many years and lost my children. I prayer over that and left and nver look back. I had to stay underground for some month. I had the protection of some Muslim Brothers who told me that would help me and they did. All praises to Allah,The Almighty