Charges upgraded against man accused of killing social worker in Westchester County

The Westchester County District Attorney has upgraded the charges against the man accused of killing a social worker earlier this year.

Police say Maria Coto, 56, was killed after she knocked on the wrong apartment door looking for a client.

Just after 3 p.m. on May 14, while the victim was conducting home visits on South Street in Peekskill, it is alleged that Haseem Jenkins repeatedly punched her in the face, chased her into a neighbor's apartment and repeatedly kicked her in the head while wearing heavy boots.

She later died from her injuries on June 19.

Jenkins, 31, was initially charged with attempted murder but pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to an upgraded charge of murder -- as well as robbery and burglary after police say the suspect had the victim's phone in his pocket.

"Justice for her is for for him to be incarcerated for the rest of his life," said the victim's goddaughter Judy Yanes.

In response to union demands, caseworkers are now escorted when needed and workers now carry panic buttons during field visits.

"For CSCA health and safety, we want to make sure that every employee goes home at the end of the night, that's our goal," said CSCA Local President Hattie Adams.

Loved ones are vowing to attend every court proceeding to keep Coto's memory alive.

"I want to remember her as a great person with a big heart, that's how she was, and I miss her a lot," said the victim's aunt Maria Gutierrez.

Jenkins was held without bail and is due back in court next week.

"Maria Coto was performing her job when she became the victim of a ruthless and brutal attack that led to her tragic death. We are committed to securing justice for Ms. Coto," said Westchester County District Attorney Miriam E. Rocah.

RELATED | Vigil held for social worker brutally murdered while conducting home visit in Peekskill

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