Video shows man wrapping belt around woman’s neck in NYC before sexually assaulting her

An incident that has shaken the community of the Bronx, New York City, a man was captured on video assaulting a 45-year-old woman in the early hours of May 1. The attack, which occurred near East 152nd Street and Third Avenue in the Melrose neighborhood, involved the assailant using a belt to strangle the victim before sexually assaulting her.

The New York City Police Department (NYPD) has released footage showing the suspect following the woman at around 3 a.m. He is seen approaching her from behind, swiftly wrapping a belt around her neck, and dragging her unconscious body between two parked cars where he then committed the sexual assault. The suspect, whose face was obscured by a white towel, fled the scene on foot immediately after the attack.

The video, which has gone viral on social media, does not show the entire assault but ends with the suspect escaping. The NYPD has issued a call for public assistance in identifying the assailant, releasing two images captured from the video. They urge anyone with information to come forward to aid in the arrest and bring justice to the victim.

This horrifying event is part of a disturbing uptick in sexual crimes reported in New York City. According to NYPD data, there have been 511 rapes and an increase in other sex crimes across the city so far in 2024. Brooklyn leads with 149 reported rapes, followed by the Bronx with 141, and Queens with 114. Overall, there have been 1,715 reported sex crimes through May 5, compared to 1,684 during the same period last year.

The Special Victims Unit is actively investigating the case, emphasizing the severity with which the NYPD is treating this and similar incidents. They have appealed to the public to provide any information that could lead to the identification and apprehension of the suspect.

Community response has been one of shock and fear, with local residents expressing concern over safety in their neighborhood. In light of the attack, community leaders and local safety advocates are calling for increased police presence and community-based safety measures to prevent such violent crimes.

The incident also highlights the broader issue of sexual assault in urban areas and the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to address and prevent these heinous crimes. Advocacy groups and local organizations are stepping up their efforts to educate the public on safety measures and are providing resources and support to survivors of sexual assault.

As the investigation continues, the NYPD has reiterated its commitment to solving this case and ensuring the safety of all New Yorkers. They encourage anyone who might have information related to the incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visit the Crime Stoppers website, or use the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app. Tips can also be sent via text to 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers can dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).

This case serves as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist even in busy urban environments and the ongoing need for community engagement in public safety initiatives.