A group of quick-acting strangers cut short an alleged attack near the north end of Central Park on Monday evening, stopping what police describe as an attempted sexual assault on a woman walking in the park.
According to law enforcement sources, the victim, described as a 45-year-old Muslim woman who was wearing a hijab, was not physically injured. Witnesses chased the alleged attacker, held him at the scene, and waited until officers arrived to take him into custody.
Attack And Arrest
As reported by the New York Post, the incident unfolded at about 5:40 p.m. on March 23 near 109th Street and East Drive. Officers later located a suspect nearby at 106th Street and East Drive.
Police identified the man as 30-year-old Lateef Caldwell. He was charged with attempted rape, attempted sexual assault, and sexual abuse, according to the same reporting.
Resources For Victims
The NYPD's Crime Victim Assistance Program notes that precinct-based advocates are available to support survivors and that people can access advocacy services even if they choose not to file a police report. The program lists the Central Park precinct as one of its locations and connects victims with counseling, legal services, and other help for people affected by crimes in the park, per the NYPD.
Suspect's Background
According to the New York Post, Caldwell was released on parole in April 2025 after being held in state custody from March 2023 through April 2025, with parole supervision scheduled to continue until 2029. The outlet also links him to an April 2022 allegation involving a man who allegedly tackled a 23-year-old woman and tried to remove her clothing.
Park Patrols And Public Safety
The arrest comes as city agencies and the Central Park Conservancy have increased patrols and launched a Ranger Corps that aims to address quality-of-life issues and safety concerns in the park. The ranger team works alongside the NYPD and Parks Enforcement Patrol to discourage problematic behavior and assist parkgoers, according to 6sqft.
What Comes Next
Prosecutors are expected to review the case, and the accused is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the NYPD's Central Park precinct or reach out to a precinct victim advocate for support, as outlined on the NYPD's victim-services page.
