Nationwide — Anthony Collins, a 41-year-old African American man from Toms River, New Jersey, has been sentenced to three years in state prison after a confrontation that turned fatal. The incident, which occurred on September 18, 2023, in Seaside Heights, involved Collins punching a 70-year-old white man, Robert May, who had been harassing Collins’ family for months. On that day, May not only collided with Collins’ wife on his bicycle but also hurled a racial slur at Collins. The single punch from Collins caused May to fall, hitting his head on the curb and eventually leading to his death.According to Asbury Park Press, in court, Collins’ defense attorney, Terrence Turnbach, argued that Collins was protecting his family from ongoing racial harassment. Turnbach highlighted that May had repeatedly targeted Collins’ children with racial slurs, making the situation intolerable for the family. According to Turnbach, Collins acted in defense of his wife and himself, especially since May had already assaulted Collins’ wife before directing his hateful language at Collins.
However, Judge Guy P. Ryan challenged this defense, suggesting that Collins should have reported the harassment to authorities rather than resorting to physical violence. The judge emphasized that Collins’ actions, which resulted in May’s death, were not justified, despite the ongoing harassment his family had endured.
The case has sparked debate among the public, particularly regarding how incidents of racial harassment and violence should be handled. While some people agree with the judge’s stance that Collins should have involved the police, others, especially those familiar with the struggles against racism, argue that Collins’ actions were understandable, if not justifiable, under the circumstances.
Robert May’s refusal of medical attention after the incident might have contributed to his death, as he succumbed to his injuries nearly two weeks later. This aspect of the case has led some to question whether May’s own stubbornness played a role in his fate, alongside the fatal punch from Collins. Nonetheless, the court has held Collins accountable, albeit with a sentence that is lighter than usual for manslaughter, due to certain evidentiary issues.
The Ocean County Prosecutor, Bradley D. Billhimer, acknowledged the challenges in proving the case, which influenced the plea agreement and subsequent sentencing. The prosecutor commended May’s family for their understanding and acceptance of the legal outcome, though the use of the term “victim” in reference to May has been contentious, given the circumstances leading up to his death.