Man Sought for Central Park Sexual Assault Pictured by NYPD
Authorities released images of a suspect wanted for a knifepoint sexual assault in Central Park, as crime data shows an increase in similar incidents in the area this year.
The New York Police Department has released images of a suspect wanted for a sexual assault that occurred at knifepoint in Central Park on Saturday night. The incident took place near East 67th Street and Fifth Avenue, where the suspect allegedly dragged a woman into a wooded area.
The victim was transported to a local hospital and is reported to be in stable condition. Law enforcement sources indicated that the victim did not appear to know her attacker. The suspect, described as wearing a black hooded jacket, black pants, and a black backpack, fled the scene after the assault.
Surveillance footage also captured the individual walking on a sidewalk with earbuds.
This incident marks the fifth rape reported within the NYPD's Central Park Precinct since the beginning of the year. This figure is an increase compared to the same period last year, when three rapes were reported in the precinct. The data comes as some residents express increased concern about safety in the park after dark.
Authorities are asking for the public's assistance. Anyone with information regarding the assault is encouraged to contact the NYPD's Sex Crimes Hotline at 1-212-267-7273 or 646-610-7272. Tips can also be submitted to the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or to 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish speakers.