Though the recent a string of about 20 sexual attacks are close by, just one of those related attacks occurred in the 66th Precinct. Now we're hearing about an incident last night, which whether or not it is related, is very upsetting.
A neighbor sends this account, and says she has reported it to the police:
Just wanted to warn everyone to be careful walking at night around the neighborhood. At 8:10pm last night I was walking on Cortelyou Rd between East 9th and Coney Island Ave when a guy on a bike road up on the sidewalk behind me and groped me. I screamed and hit him with my umbrella but he biked away down Coney Island Ave towards Church Ave. There were plenty of people around but no one said anything even though I was visibly shaken and they saw the guy I was screaming at riding away.
He was on a dirt bike/mountain bike and was wearing a navy sweatshirt with the hood up.
I'm waiting to hear back from the 66th Precinct about whether they've had other similar reports recently. Hoping this is an isolated incident, but be careful while you're walking. Everyone always says to be aware of your surroundings, and following this and all the iPhone grabs, it can't hurt to remind people to try to be more careful. It would be nice if a reminder not to grope or steal could be as effective.
And hey people on the street--don't just stand there, help! I understand not wanting to put yourself in danger, but there are other things you can do. Call the police. Ask if the person who just screamed is okay. Look out for your neighbors.
I can't believe I have to write that. Again, it'd be nice if such a reminder could be effective.
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