A man who brutally attacked and killed several homeless men in New York City has been sentenced to 40 years to life in prison.
Randy Santos, 31, received the sentence on May 28, following his conviction in February for multiple violent crimes, including four counts of first-degree murder.
Attack on Homeless Men in Chinatown
On October 5, 2019, Santos allegedly attacked homeless men sleeping on the sidewalk in Manhattan’s Chinatown using a metal bar. The victims included Anthony Manson, Nazario Abdelardo Vazquez Villegas, and Florencio Moran Camano, all of whom were killed. Another man, David Hernandez, was seriously injured in the attack.
Eyewitnesses reported that Santos initially dropped the weapon, but later retrieved it to strike a fourth victim, Cheun Kok, who was sleeping near a building. Despite 911 calls, Kok died from his injuries before emergency responders arrived.
Authorities also linked Santos to a previous attack in September 2019, in which he beat a homeless man sleeping on a waterfront bench and tried to push him into the water.
Background on Randy Santos
Santos had a history of violence. About a year before the attacks, his mother, Fioraliza Rodriguez, said she had kicked him out after he assaulted her. He had also allegedly attacked others on a subway train, at an employment agency, and in a homeless shelter, with six arrests prior to the October 5, 2019 attacks.
At trial, Santos’ defense argued that he is schizophrenic and cannot be held fully responsible, claiming he believed a voice in his head instructed him to kill 40 people or be killed.
Sentencing and Statements
At sentencing, senior trial counsel Alfred Peterson said, “There are no victim impact statements here today. But I’m certain that this court and our city understands the value of every life and the gift of life.”
Santos also apologized for his actions, stating, “I apologize to the people for what I did… I wish it never happened.”
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg Jr. emphasized the severity of the crimes: “The chilling murders committed by Randy Santos shook New York City.
He displayed an appalling disregard for the lives of his victims, who were completely defenseless and unable to protect themselves. Unhoused individuals deserve the same level of safety as anyone else, and I hope the resolution of this case serves as a reminder of the work that remains in protecting and supporting our most vulnerable residents.”
