WHITE PLAINS — A Westchester County Court jury recently returned a guilty verdict in the trial of the man responsible for the death of CSEA member Maria Coto.
Coto, a Westchester County Unit member and senior caseworker at the county Department of Social Services, died June 19, 2024, from injuries sustained in a vicious attack a month earlier while she was attempting a home visit in Peekskill.
“Nothing will ever make up for the tragic loss of Maria Coto, but we are grateful her loved ones and co-workers are finally seeing justice served,” said CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan. “On behalf of CSEA, I would like to thank everyone involved in bringing justice for our union sister.”
Coto’s killer, 32-year-old Hasseem Jenkins, was found guilty on felony charges of second-degree murder; first-degree manslaughter, robbery and burglary; and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon. His sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 11.
“It’s truly heartbreaking what happened to our dear sister, Maria Coto,” said Westchester County Local President Hattie Adams. “Everyone deserves to return home safely at the end of their workday. CSEA Local 860 will continue to work tirelessly to raise awareness and advocate for the safety of all social services workers across all counties. We stand united with Maria’s family in their pursuit of justice. Together, we will remain strong.”
Our union has advocated at the state level for measures that would keep caseworkers safer on the job. County-based labor-management discussions have included the addition of police escorts or private security on an as-needed basis.
“Since Maria’s passing, we have redoubled our efforts to advocate for enhanced safety protocols, including better training, communication tools and security resources for field workers,” said Westchester County Unit President Joseph Dalli. “We remain committed to partnering with Westchester County leadership to ensure no one else endures what Maria did.”
— Jessica Ladlee