NYPD issues warning about surge in assaults targeting senior citizens
NEW YORK (PIX11) – The NYPD has issued a warning about a surge in assaults across the city, primarily involving strangers attacking senior citizens.
On the Upper West Side, two separate incidents occurred on the same day, targeting different women by different suspects.
Geurla Freeman, 81, was walking her dog on West 66th Street last Friday evening when a man approached, muttering to himself. When the dog stopped to sniff around, the man doubled back and delivered a powerful punch that knocked Freeman against a building and onto the ground.
“It was a very, very bad fall, and I lost consciousness,” Freeman said. “I have amnesia.”
This attack was not the only violent incident against a senior last Friday. Just five hours earlier, six blocks away on West 72nd Street, a different man was captured on video punching a 77-year-old woman in the face, mere steps from Central Park.
The victim declined to speak with PIX11 News.
“I think you have to be very aware. I'm going to be 80, so I'm aware of my vulnerability,” said Merlann Taylor, a lifelong New Yorker who was recently targeted and had $1,200 stolen while doing her banking.
According to the NYPD, there have been over 1,800 assaults on people over the age of 65 this year, marking a 14% increase.
Last Sunday, an 88-year-old was mugged and slammed to the ground by two suspects on scooters in Sunset Park.
“I am aware and worried,” said Judy Cohn, another concerned resident. “I’d like to have more police around,” she added.
In all three incidents, police have yet to make any arrests. They believe they know who assaulted Freeman.
“I was given a second lease on life—that's how I feel,” Freeman said, who suffered a broken nose and memory loss but remains undeterred. “Live your life and continue because you cannot predict—are you going to be a prisoner in your house?”