The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) expresses deep concern and disappointment on the recent sentencing of Christian Lentz, the perpetrator in the 2023 violent assault of 75-year-old Filipino American Amadeo Quindara of Las Vegas.
Despite the acknowledged racial bias behind the attack, Lentz was sentenced to only 90 days in jail, five years of probation, and $7,000 in restitution after pleading guilty under a mentally ill plea.
The assault occurred on May 30, 2023, while Quindara was peacefully seated in his garage. The assailant first shouted hateful remarks and returned moments later to violently strike Quindara while yelling, “Die, die, die.” The incident left Quindara with a head laceration, memory loss, and long-term emotional trauma.
“This sentence does not reflect the gravity of what Mr. Quindara endured,” said Ryan Namata, NaFFAA national president. “This was more than a personal attack—it was an affront to the dignity of our elders and our community. We stand united in calling for accountability, safety, and justice.”
“Let this moment serve not as an ending, but as a catalyst,” said Mariela Fletcher, NaFFAA national chair. “We honor Mr. Quindara’s strength and his family’s courage. Our work continues—ensuring that Filipino Americans and all communities can live free from fear and that hate is met with collective resolve, not silence.”
After the sentencing, son Phillip Quindara said the decision of District Judge Jennifer Schwartz’s was “devastating” and an injustice, according to a report from the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
“The family hoped the sentencing would provide closure, but now, the disappointment is just immense,” he said. Friends and supporters felt the accused “is getting away with it.”
NaFFAA Nevada has mobilized local leaders, legal advocates, and community members to bring attention to this case and the broader implications of weak sentencing in hate-motivated crimes.
“This is a sobering reminder that hate still exists in our neighborhoods—and that justice must be pursued with vigilance,” said Jacqueline de Joya, president of NaFFAA Nevada. “We urge leaders, law enforcement, and communities to strengthen hate crime enforcement, expand mental health support without excusing violence, and provide meaningful resources for victims.”
“After two years of waiting for justice, this outcome is deeply disheartening,” added Gloria T. Caoile, senior advisor of NaFFAA Nevada. “This wasn’t just an assault on Mr. Quindara—it was a violation of our shared humanity. But we will not be silenced. We will educate, advocate, and stand together.”
In a statement, NaFFAA “reaffirms its commitment to protecting and empowering the Filipino American community and all vulnerable communities across the country.”
