New York City leaders are under scrutiny for their response to two recent, violent attacks on women in public spaces, with critics pointing to a perceived lack of concrete action and a noticeable silence from Governor Kathy Hochul. The incidents, which occurred within the past two weeks, have raised concerns about public safety and the administration's priorities.

One woman, Katie Suarez, 28, was hospitalized in critical condition after being stabbed multiple times in the neck while jogging on Shore Parkway Greenway in Brooklyn. Police stated the attack was unprovoked. In a separate incident, a 39-year-old woman was reportedly raped at knifepoint in Central Park. As of the report, no arrests have been made in either case.

New York City Council Member Kayla Santosuosso, representing southern Brooklyn, expressed horror at Suarez's stabbing and stated that the promenade where the attack occurred has been poorly lit for years. She pledged to work towards ensuring renovations include sufficient lighting and stated, "We will be working to ensure that upcoming renovations to the pedestrian bridge near the scene and the promenade itself will include sufficient lighting." She added, "This is a serious and personal issue for me as a woman and as a mother and I will be doing everything in my power to keep southern Brooklyn a place where women can live without fear."

Retired NYPD inspector and Fox News contributor Paul Mauro suggested that improved lighting and the visible presence of cameras are crucial first steps in preventing such attacks. "Lighting is great, but I would not only ask for that. I would ask for cameras and very ostentatious cameras," Mauro said, emphasizing that "You want people to feel like they are observed."

This situation has drawn criticism, particularly when contrasted with Governor Hochul's swift and decisive actions in a more high-profile case. Last month, Hochul appointed a special prosecutor and directed State Police to investigate alleged sexual assaults at Cornell University. Critics argue that this level of executive urgency is not being applied to the safety concerns of everyday New Yorkers.

In response to the Brooklyn stabbing, Attorney General Letitia James posted on X, "This is outrageous and unacceptable. No New Yorker should have to fear such violence. I’m praying for a swift recovery for Katie, and keeping her family in my thoughts."

A spokesperson for Mayor Zohran Mamdani's office stated, "The recent attacks on women across our city are horrific. Every New Yorker should be able to walk anywhere in our city at any time of day or night without fear of violence. The Mamdani administration is committed to ensuring that survivors are heard and supported — and that those responsible are held accountable. We will continue working with survivors, service providers and community partners to strengthen prevention, close gaps in services and confront gender-based violence."

However, Mauro noted that neither the Mayor nor the City Council have mentioned increasing police patrols, which he views as a significant oversight. "Nobody will be willing to admit that good policing keeps people safe because they need the police as something to beat up on," he commented.

Fox News Digital has reached out to Hochul's office for comment.