THE BRONX, N.Y. – A person of interest was taken into police custody for questioning on Saturday following a disturbing incident where a woman was choked with a belt and sexually assaulted on a Bronx street. Reports from police sources have indicated that the individual is now in custody as the investigation continues.
Police had previously identified a suspect, Kashaan Parks, 39, in connection to the May 1 attack near 152nd Street and Third Avenue. The specific charges against Parks related to the violent assault were not immediately disclosed by officials.
According to a viral video capturing the harrowing incident, the 45-year-old woman was ambushed by a suspect who wrapped a belt around her neck from behind. The assailant, concealing his identity with a white towel, then proceeded to drag the unconscious victim along the sidewalk and into the street, where the sexual assault took place.
Law enforcement authorities suspect that the attack may have been sparked by a possible prostitution arrangement, as indicated by NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny. It was noted that Parks and the victim were acquainted from the neighborhood, with the woman identifying Parks by a distinctive feature – a gap in his teeth.
Following the assault, the victim was apprehended for petty theft but did not immediately report the rape. The investigation was initiated after a Bronx police officer recognized the woman from the video of the attack, leading to further inquiries by law enforcement officials.
As the situation continues to unfold, updates on the ongoing investigation will be provided. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of swift action and support for victims of violent crime.
Charline Charles, a digital journalist hailing from Brooklyn, has been covering local news, culture, and arts in the New York City area since 2019. Joining PIX11 News in 2022, Charles continues to bring awareness to important issues through her reporting.