A man with a long history of arrests is back in custody after allegedly attacking a New York University student as she walked to class, raising renewed questions about public safety and the handling of repeat violent offenders in the city.
The suspect, identified as 45-year-old James Rizzo, is accused of approaching a 20-year-old student near campus, grabbing her without warning, pulling her hair, and shoving her to the ground before striking her and attempting to flee. Witnesses called police, who quickly located and arrested Rizzo nearby.
Investigators later confirmed that Rizzo has been arrested 16 times over the years. His record includes multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, assaults on women, and other offenses that authorities say demonstrate a clear pattern of predatory behavior. He had been released from prison only months earlier after serving time on sexual-abuse charges.
Prosecutors have now charged him with several offenses, including persistent sexual abuse, forcible touching, and assault. Officials say the case highlights the dangers posed by repeat offenders who cycle in and out of the criminal-justice system, often returning to the streets with little supervision.
The victim, who suffered bruising and emotional trauma from the attack, is receiving support from the university as the investigation continues. Campus security has increased patrols in the area, and NYU is urging students to remain alert while traveling near campus.
City leaders and advocates are once again clashing over how to address violent repeat offenders, with some calling for stricter sentencing and others pushing for expanded mental-health interventions. Rizzo remains in custody as prosecutors move forward with the case.