Physical attacks on women in New York City have increased by a shocking 41% in the past four years, according to data from the NYPD, reports the New York Post. From the beginning of this year until October 1, a total of 2,830 women have been victims of serious assault, not including domestic violence. This is a significant increase compared to the 2,006 cases reported four years ago. The attacks have also risen by 5% compared to the same period last year.
Many women have expressed their concern about the rise in attacks. A 27-year-old woman, who was recently assaulted at a subway station, shared her frustration, saying it feels like men just hate women. Some victims blame the city’s politicians for their decisions to release criminals from jails during the pandemic and pass laws that reduce the number of people in custody. They believe that these actions contribute to the increase in attacks.
Experts and officials have also weighed in on the issue. Jane Manning, director of Women’s Equal Justice Project, believes that the increase in assault cases can be attributed to a rise in explicit misogyny in public. Joseph Giacalone, a retired NYPD sergeant and professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, explains that criminals are opportunists who prey on the most vulnerable targets.
He said,
“Criminals are opportunists, and they’re cowards, and they’re going to seek out the easiest targets available. It’s as simple as that.”
Despite these alarming statistics and the challenges women face, they are coming together to support each other and ensure the safety of others.
#Clique, what are your thoughts?
