Sunday, September 2, 2018

[Updated] Suspect sought for sexual assault in 13th Street building

The NYPD is searching for 43-year-old Julio Mendez, who is accused of sexually assaulting a woman inside a building on 13th Street yesterday.

Here is part of a report via ABC 7 this morning:

Police say around 11:15 Saturday night the attacker struck up a conversation with a 46-year-old woman inside the laundry room of a building on East 13th Street.

He persuaded the victim to follow him outside the laundry room where he then grabbed her by the arm and neck.

According to police, the victim resisted and fell to the ground, at which time the man covered her mouth and attempted to remove her clothing.

She continued to struggle as he sexually assaulted her, but the man fled the scene when the woman screamed.

PIX 11 reported that the attack happened yesterday at 11:15 a.m.

The victim was reportedly treated and released from Bellevue.

Updated 1:25 p.m.

The Daily News has more details. The attack occurred inside Tanya Towers, which provides housing to low-income residents who are deaf, blind or have other disabilities.

Per the News:

Cops say he is a familiar face to Tanya Towers tenants but could not immediately clarify whether Mendez lived or worked there. He appears to be wearing hearing aids in both ears in the photo released by cops.

Updated 9/4

Patch reports that the NYPD has arrested Mendez.

Per Patch:

Police said Mendez has four prior arrests, including for rape and attempted murder.

He was charged with attempted rape, sexual abuse, criminal obstruction of breathing, assault and menacing for the Saturday attack, officials said.

Anyone with information that could help in the investigation is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). You may also submit tips online.

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