NYU Assault Suspect James Rizzo Arraigned on Multiple Charges

Suspect Arraigned for NYU Student Assault

• 🎯 James Rizzo, 45, was arraigned overnight on charges including assault, persistent sexual abuse, forcible touching, and burglary.
• ⚡ The charges stem from a random attack on 20-year-old NYU student Amelia Lewis, who was on her way to class.
• 💡 Surveillance video of the attack went viral, sending shockwaves through the community.

Suspect's Extensive Criminal History

• ⚠️ Police report Rizzo has a history of mental illness and a lengthy criminal record with 16 prior arrests.
• 🚨 Prior arrests include charges for sexual abuse and attempted murder.
• 🔓 Rizzo was paroled in September from an earlier conviction and is also a registered level two sex offender.

Additional Alleged Crimes

• 📌 Authorities believe Rizzo may be responsible for other crimes, including an attack on a 68-year-old woman on Thanksgiving night.
• 🏠 Students also learned Rizzo was allegedly squatting in an NYU housing building and stealing.

Community Reaction and Legal Proceedings

• 💬 The attack has left students feeling scared, with concerns about safety on campus and in the surrounding community.
• ⚖️ Rizzo was remanded to jail and ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation.
• 📅 He is expected in court for parole violations today and back in a Manhattan courtroom on Monday for the latest charges.