Halley Kate opens up after testifying against alleged attacker in court

TikTok star Halley Kate is speaking candidly about her first experience testifying in court nearly two years after she says she was punched by a stranger in New York City.

On February 3, the 25-year-old influencer appeared at the New York Supreme Criminal Court, facing the man she claims assaulted her in March 2024. 

She shared her courthouse experience on Instagram, admitting she had been anxious about the appearance.

"In all honesty, I really didn't want to testify because I was very anxious to go literally speak to a man who assaulted me on the streets," Kate wrote, adding that the defendant is “still free and who's to say what he's capable of.” She said she felt it was necessary to step forward to prevent him from “walk[ing] freely on the streets.”

Kate posted a video of the incident at the time, showing a large bump forming on her forehead. 

The NYPD confirmed her injuries and arrested Skiboky Stora, who is now facing five charges, including assault and aggravated harassment. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts.

During the trial, Kate described ongoing physical effects, noting, "I couldn’t really touch anywhere near that spot" and that she can still feel the impact in her hairline. 

She also detailed the unusual court experience of being questioned by the defendant, who represented himself. 

Many of his questions, including references to a viral TikTok trend about false assault claims, were objected to in court.

Kate told her followers on TikTok that she had prepared with prosecutors but was caught off guard by the defendant’s direct questioning. 

"First thing that he asked me was if I was aware that there was a viral TikTok trend about girls lying about getting punched in the head," she said.

She also recounted the defendant’s repeated interruptions, including six bathroom breaks during her hour-and-a-half testimony.