WOODSIDE — A recent sex attack in Woodside — where the suspect punched a woman in the face while demanding that she performed a sex act on him — sparked outrage among local residents.
On Thursday morning, local politicians joined the community leaders to speak out against the assault, which left the victim with a broken nose.
Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer and state Sen. Michael Gianaris handed out fliers with a description of the perpetrator to commuters hoping to raise awareness about the incident and to help police catch the suspect.
According to cops, the attack occurred on Aug. 25, around 3:30 a.m. after the suspect approached the victim on a black BMX-style bicycle.
He then began striking the woman in the face, telling her that he would stop hitting her if she performed a sex act on him.
But the woman managed to escape, police said.
The suspect, who according to police, remained on his bicycle throughout the entire incident, fled. The victim was treated at Elmhurst Hospital for a broken nose.
“One sex attack in our city is one too many. I encourage everyone in the community to be vigilant as the 108th precinct pursues leads in this case,” said Van Bramer. “By coming together we can track down this cowardly criminal and make sure he is punished to the fullest extent of the law."
And Gianaris said: “Women should not have to live in fear of being threatened or assaulted as they go about their daily lives.”
Police said the suspect is 20-25 years old, between 5-foot-5 and 5-foot-9, weighing between 155-170 pounds. He has black hair, brown eyes and a thin build.
Anyone with information in regards is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577.
All calls are strictly confidential.
