A chef who suffered concussion after being attacked for a TikTok ideo says he has forgiven his attackers.
Greg Medina met the two 13-year-olds after their parents turned them over to police after learning their sons were suspected of kicking him in the head and stealing his phone.
The single dad was in a hot tub at his apartment complex in San Bernardino, California, when he was approached by the boys after he finished his shift cooking for homeless people for Lutheran Social Services.
One of the teenagers kicked him in the back of the head, sending his glasses and AirPods flying.
Greg turned round and saw the second boy snatch his cell phone before the pair ran off.
He was unable to catch up with the boys, but his phone was tracked to a neighbouring apartment complex.
Police were unable to pinpoint exactly where his phone was, but the teenagers later admitted to ditching the phone, according to KABC.
Both boys were arrested on felony robbery charges after their parents took them to San Bernardino police station on Friday. The boy accused of kicking Greg in the head is also facing an assault charge.
Greg, who was listening to a class lecture on the device at the time of the attack, went to hospital and was diagnosed with concussion.
One of the boys’ fathers contacted Greg after both teenagers admitted they carried out the attack for a TikTok video.
Greg said: ‘He was very apologetic, saying his son made a stupid mistake, but he understands that he did need to be held accountable.
‘To turn their children in, and turn them over to the police, and then leave without their kids. That had to have been hard. And it tears at my heartstrings as a father, but I understand as well.’
After speaking to the teenagers, he said: ‘I never once raised my voice or yelled at them or belittled them. I wanted them to know that they were loved and I do forgive them.’
He told NBC Los Angeles: ‘We shared an embrace and a hug… I don’t hate them. These are two young men that need help.’
Despite suffering with severe headaches, nausea, dizziness, neck pain and shoulder pain, Greg still had to work to provide for his 12-year-old daughter.
His sister, Eilena, has started a gofundme page to support him so he can have some time off, as his doctor instructed.
She said: ‘Being unable to work has created a serious financial burden for Greg and his family during an already traumatic time.
‘Donations will help cover medical expenses, replace the items that were stolen, and support Greg and his family while he heals.’
So far, $1,705 has been raised for Greg.
