The New York Police Department's Crimestoppers has issued a call for information regarding a series of forcible touching incidents reported to have occurred in Astoria, Queens. According to a social media post from NYPD Crimestoppers, the search is on for an individual linked to a disturbing pattern of behavior that targeted women in the neighborhood.
On Monday, two separate incidents involving a 25-year-old female were reported. The first incident took place around 10:50 p.m., near Astoria Boulevard and 22 Street, while the second occurred only 20 minutes later near 47 Street and Newtown Road. In both cases, the assailant claimed the victim had a spider on her before proceeding to inappropriately touch her. The individual in question informed one victim about the alleged spider before slapping her buttocks over her clothing, police indicated.
The NYPD is asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect and has provided options for submitting tips anonymously. Information can be shared by sending a direct message to @nypdtips or calling 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).
