Police Tie Manhattan Groping Suspect To Attempted Rape In East Harlem
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Police believe a now-infamous and diminutive Manhattan groping suspect was behind an attempted rape early Sunday morning.
Authorities said that the suspect attempted to assault a 21-year-old woman inside an East Harlem apartment building around 4:35 a.m.
1010 WINS' John Montone Reports
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That victim spoke exclusively to CBS 2's Pablo Guzman and described what happened Sunday.
"He came towards me. He tried to speak, but I wouldn't let him. So he tried to attack me, but I pushed him away. I pushed him away about two or three times. After he seen me fighting him away, he grabbed in between my legs," the victim said.
She also said she started throwing things -- including a garbage can -- at the suspect as he ran away.
"Someone needs to stop him because he's just going to keep on doing it until he tries something new," the victim said.
1010 WINS' Terry Sheridan Reports From East Harlem
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Police Commissioner Ray Kelly said earlier Tuesday that detectives believe the suspect may be a kitchen worker because the incidents have occurred at "off hours."
The latest incident is the 10th sex abuse occurrence that police have tied to the suspect, described as a Hispanic man between 4-foot-11 to 5-3', weighing between 120 and 130 pounds with spiky hair. He is said to be between 25 and 30 years old.
One East Harlem resident who spoke with 1010 WINS' Terry Sheridan said she wasn't scared of the suspect and had some tips for those who may encounter him.
"You can draw attention to yourself by screaming," she said. "Usually on the subway, somebody's going to help you."
The same man is also suspected in a separate incident on Saturday, when he allegedly approached a woman from behind inside the 59th Street/Lexington Avenue Subway station and lifted her skirt. Police believe the suspect attempted to possibly videotape her. The 27-year-old victim screamed and ran away.
The suspect is accused of groping at least eight other women dating back to May. Police said all of the victims were in their 20s and early 30s.
Anyone with information should call police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or visit www.nypdcrimestoppers.com.
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