NYU Student Randomly Assaulted on Campus; Arrest Made

Random Assault on NYU Student

• 💡 A 20-year-old NYU student, Amelia Lewis, was randomly assaulted on her way to class on the first day back after Thanksgiving break.
• 📌 The attack occurred near the intersection of Broadway and Waverly, where a man approached her from behind, slapped her backside, and shoved her to the ground.
• 💬 Lewis shared her experience on social media, urging others to be aware of their surroundings due to the unpredictable nature of such incidents.

Community Reaction and Safety Concerns

• ⚠️ Many female students expressed disgust and fear after seeing the surveillance video, with some parents advising their daughters to be more cautious.
• 📍 The incident happened in a busy area with an NYU bus stop and subway station nearby, highlighting safety concerns in a well-trafficked student zone.

Suspect Apprehended and University Response

• 🚨 Police arrested 45-year-old James Rizzo in connection with the attack.
• ⚖️ Rizzo has been charged with persistent sexual abuse, forcible touching, and assault, and was reportedly out on parole for a previous sex abuse conviction.
• 🏠 Police sources indicate Rizzo is homeless and has a history of 16 prior arrests.
• ✅ An NYU spokesperson stated the university takes the incident seriously and is offering support to the student involved.