Street vendor attacked in downtown LA speaks out for first time

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A street vendor who was violently attacked while working in downtown Los Angeles last month is speaking publicly for the first time, urging other vendors to report attacks and seek help from law enforcement.

Arabelia Martinez appeared outside Los Angeles City Hall on Monday, surrounded by supporters weeks after the June 15 assault. Martinez was selling hot dogs and fruit from her cart in downtown when she was attacked.

Police said 19-year-old Harmunie Church was arrested in connection with the incident. Prosecutors have charged Church with felony offenses, including assault and vandalism.

Martinez thanked the detectives who investigated the case and encouraged fellow street vendors to speak out when they are victims of violence.

Her son, Constantino Garcia, served as her interpreter.

"She says she forgives her, but at the same time, she wants justice. So those who do those types of actions face the consequences of their actions," Garcia said.

Martinez has not yet returned to work and continues to receive treatment for injuries she suffered in the attack.

The Los Angeles Police Department used the case to encourage street vendors to report assaults, regardless of their immigration status.

"The law does not ask a victim where they were born. We don't ask the victims how they got to the United States. We just know that they're victims and we will always be there for everybody in the city," LAPD Deputy Chief German Hurtado said.

Church has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said Church could face significant prison time if convicted.

"The total maximum sentence that Miss Church is looking at is over 7 years in state prison," Hochman said.

Hochman also said the investigation remains ongoing and that Church could still face a hate crime charge.

A GoFundMe page set up by Martinez's son.