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Police: Woman Walking Dog Attacked In Attempted Gunpoint Robbery

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Women who walk dogs may feel like they have an extra layer of protection from potential attackers, but that didn't stop one predator in Manhattan.

Authorities have released a surveillance image and video of the man they are looking for. It was taken in the lobby of a building on East 27th near Second Avenue.

Police said he is the man suspected of attacking a woman walking her dog at 2 a.m. on Saturday. It happened in the Kips Bay section and had other female dog owners concerned.

"It's very scary. I won't be walking my dog at 2 in the morning, that's for sure," Lisa Katy told CBS 2's John Slattery on Wednesday.

The attack took place on East 27th Street. The victim, a 28-year-old woman, was apparently taking her dog home.

According to a police source, the woman was going into the building when she was followed by a man who tried to rob her.

When the woman said she didn't have any money or a cellphone, the man sexually abused her, then left. A neighbor said he heard nothing.

"You think most of Manhattan is very safe, but there are some pockets where you could get very hurt," Jacob Marks said.

It's a wake-up call for women who take their dogs out late at night, thinking the pooch offers protection.

"I feel much safer with him, like a secure boy," Mirela Afonso said.

Police described the attacker as 6-foot and heavy-set with a bald head. He was wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and bubble vest. Authorities said they hope someone will be able to recognize him.

Police are particularly concerned about the suspect because he held his victim at gunpoint.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577.

All calls are strictly confidential.

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