Police detain person of interest in Central Park sex assault case

In a recent development reported by CBS New York's Lisa Rozner, the New York Police Department has a person of interest in custody in connection with the sexual assault of a sunbather in Central Park. Although the individual has not yet been charged in relation to the Central Park case, they are currently being held on an active warrant for an unrelated matter. Sources indicate that the suspect was identified through DNA evidence found on the victim, with the assault taking place in broad daylight near West Drive and 104th Street. The victim, a 21-year-old woman, was sunbathing alone when the assailant exposed himself and attacked her, prompting the police to release a sketch of the suspect described as being in his 30s with curly hair and a medium build. This incident comes amidst a concerning rise in robberies and random attacks within Central Park, as highlighted by data provided by the NYPD showing a significant increase in robberies in the Central Park Precinct compared to the previous year. The surge in criminal activities includes various incidents such as a rock being thrown at actor Michael Stuhlbarg, a woman being assaulted with a hammer, and two gunpoint robberies occurring within days of each other. Concerns over park safety have been raised by both authorities and parkgoers, with one individual expressing the need for enhanced measures to protect women in public spaces. In response to the escalating security challenges, an NYPD official has proposed the installation of cameras in poorly illuminated bike paths within the park, citing the prevalence of incidents in secluded areas. The call for increased surveillance and safety measures reflects a growing urgency to address the safety concerns of visitors and residents in Central Park. As investigations into the recent sexual assault case continue, the community remains vigilant and advocates for proactive steps to ensure the well-being of individuals enjoying the park's amenities.