STAMFORD, Conn. — An investment banker from Connecticut charged with a hate crime against a New York City cab driver has waived his right to a jury trial and is asking a judge to decide the case.

The lawyer for Morgan Stanley executive William Jennings gave up his client’s right to a jury trial Tuesday during an appearance in Stamford Superior Court, the Advocate of Stamford reported. The case was continued to May 25.

Police say the 47-year-old Darien resident told the cab driver of Middle Eastern descent to go back to his country and cut the driver’s hand with a pen knife after refusing to pay the $204 fare from Manhattan to Darien.

Jennings denies charges of intimidation based on race or bigotry, assault and theft of services.