Suspect In Assault On Officer Investigating Groping Incidents In Custody
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A person is in custody in connection with the assault of an officer investigating a series of groping attacks on young girls in Park Slope, police said Wednesday.
In the last month, at least four girls under the age of 12 have been approached from behind and groped, according to police. Each attack happened in broad daylight near the area of 5th Avenue between 8th and 11th streets.
As WCBS 880's Marla Diamond reported, police said a good Samaritan helped solve the case.
Person In Custody In Park Slope Groping Investigation
Police Commissioner Ray Kelly said the man recognized the suspect and chased him on Tuesday but lost him.
"Saw him again today and asked him for identification. Showed him identification, he took a picture of it, and gave that information to the 78 Precinct, who in turn gave it to the Special Victims Unit," said Kelly.
The injured detective suffered a dislocated shoulder, Kelly said.
Residents On Edge As Cops Hunt Groping Suspect In Brooklyn
The most recent incident happened on Nov. 11. just after 4 p.m. Police said victim was an 11-year-old girl.
The attacks have left many in Park Slope, especially parents, on high alert.
"I'd like to catch him myself," said resident James Mcgarry. "He should be locked away. Simple. Put him in a cell, throw away the key."
"This kind of things, I've never heard this happening in this neighborhood," another resident said.
"I think it's disgusting, it's sick," said another man.
"It's distressing because sometimes she walks down to school with her other friends and you don't know," Keisha John said of her daughter.
"It's very scary," said Stephanie Harry, who works nearby. "I hope they catch him."
"A lot of children here," added business owner Andy Elborai. "It should not happen. It shouldn't happen anywhere, honestly."
Monday afternoon, a special victims detective was chasing leads when police said she saw a man who fit the description of the suspect lurking near bus stop and acting suspiciously.
When she approached him, police said he attacked, throwing the detective to the ground and dislocating her shoulder. He then ran away.
It's unclear if he is connected to the gropings in any way.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS, visit Crimestoppers.com or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577.
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