by New York City, NY — A 20-year-old NYU student, Amelia Lewis, was attacked in Lower Manhattan on Monday morning by a violent vagrant with a lengthy criminal record. Police say James Rizzo, 45, shoved Lewis to the ground, grabbed her hair, and assaulted her unprovoked as she walked to class near Washington Square Park.
Rizzo was charged with persistent sexual abuse, forcible touching, and assault in connection with the incident. The victim posted a tearful video online, expressing shock and anger over the attack, stating that such incidents are “unacceptable” and highlighting the dangers women face in public spaces.
Rizzo’s Troubling Criminal Record
Authorities revealed that Rizzo has 16 prior arrests, including convictions for sexual abuse, forcible touching, and a 1997 murder charge. Most recently, he was released from state prison in September after serving two years for a persistent sexual abuse conviction.
Police report that Rizzo also committed multiple burglaries, including four burglaries in the same building where three incidents occurred while residents were sleeping. He was caught in the act during one of these burglaries on Tuesday, leading to his arrest.
Details of the Assault
The assault occurred around 9:30 a.m. Monday, when Rizzo allegedly ran up behind Lewis, grabbed her, and threw her to the ground before fleeing the scene. Police described the attack as random and unprovoked, emphasizing the ongoing threat Rizzo poses to public safety.
Lewis later shared her experience online, saying:
“I’m honestly still in shock, but I’m more enraged that things like this are able to happen in this city, and we really need to do something about it because this is unacceptable.”
Additional Incidents
Rizzo’s violent history includes an incident on Dec. 27, 2023, when he allegedly grabbed a 33-year-old woman’s breasts on Green Street in Manhattan, verbally taunting her during the attack. Law enforcement sources have labeled Rizzo a serial predator, citing his repeated assaults on women over decades.
Public Safety Concerns
Officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior, particularly in areas frequented by pedestrians and college students. Police are investigating whether Rizzo may be connected to additional crimes in the Manhattan area.
Authorities also noted the challenges of managing repeat offenders who have been released from prison, highlighting ongoing debates over public safety, criminal rehabilitation, and homelessness in New York City.
What Do You Think?
How should the city handle repeat violent offenders living on the streets while balancing public safety and rehabilitation? Share your thoughts in the comments — your perspective could help shape community safety discussions.
