Suspect Arrested After Random Attack on NYU Student, 16 Prior Arrests

UPDATE: A 45-year-old man has been arrested following a shocking attack on a New York University (NYU) student earlier this week. James Rizzo, who has a lengthy criminal history with 16 prior arrests, was apprehended on Tuesday after police linked him to the violent incident that took place on Monday morning in front of 735 Broadway in Greenwich Village.

The attack occurred as the 20-year-old victim was walking to class. Rizzo allegedly approached her from behind, pulling her hair and slapping her head and buttocks, causing her to fall to the ground. Eyewitnesses were horrified as bystanders rushed to her aid and called 911.

“I saw the video as well, which was scary and very disturbing,” said NYU graduate student Ashlyn Prieto. “It definitely makes you more alert, especially on my route to class.” The NYPD confirmed that Rizzo was arrested after being found sleeping in a building, connecting him to the attack through their investigation.

Rizzo, who was released from prison in September 2023 after serving two years for persistent sexual abuse, faces charges including persistent sexual abuse, forcible touching, and assault. His past includes a murder charge from 1997 and a recent incident where he groped another woman in the same area, asking her, “Oh, you want more?”

Authorities are investigating whether Rizzo may be linked to other random attacks on female students at NYU. “I’ve always been concerned about safety a little bit, but seeing something like this happen brings it to my concern more,” noted NYU freshman Rachel Rosenberg.

In response to the incident, NYU released a statement affirming their commitment to student safety and support. “The University is pleased that a suspect has been apprehended in the attack on one of its students that took place Monday morning on a Broadway sidewalk,” said NYU spokesperson John Beckman. “We take this incident very seriously. Our Campus Safety Department assisted the victim and worked with the police investigating the incident.”

Investigators are now working to ascertain if Rizzo is connected to additional assaults in the area, adding a layer of urgency to this ongoing situation. The NYPD urges anyone with further information to come forward as they continue their investigation into these troubling incidents.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.