A terrifying pattern of violence is emerging in Manhattan, centered around 45-year-old James Rizzo. He now faces charges after a shocking assault on a New York University student, but this incident appears to be just the latest in a string of random attacks and burglaries.
The recent attack unfolded Monday morning when 20-year-old Amelia Lewis was violently thrown to the ground. Security footage reportedly shows Rizzo approaching Lewis from behind, slapping her, yanking her hair, and then fleeing the scene. Lewis described the assault as completely unprovoked, recounting the suddenness of the attack in a video shared online.
This alleged assault wasn’t an isolated incident. Just days before, on Thanksgiving evening, Rizzo is accused of pushing a 68-year-old woman, Jana Dianne Brazell, in Midtown Manhattan. Brazell, visiting family, described a bizarre and frightening encounter, filled with erratic speech before the sudden, forceful shove.
Brazell’s fall was brutal, sending her crashing into a glass wall and requiring six stitches. The entire ordeal, she stated, lasted a mere six seconds, a terrifying snapshot of unexpected violence. Rizzo allegedly struck her from behind with his elbow, initiating the devastating fall.
The NYPD’s investigation took another turn when Rizzo was discovered breaking into an NYU off-campus housing complex. He wasn’t simply trespassing; he was actively burglarizing apartments in the Washington Square Park area, stealing electronics, a suitcase, and other belongings valued at over $3,150.
Investigators were able to track a stolen laptop back to the building, leading them to Rizzo. He was found alone in a penthouse, surrounded by the stolen goods. The scene painted a clear picture of a man actively engaged in criminal activity.
Rizzo’s history is extensive, with a record of 16 prior arrests. Adding to the concern, he is a level-two sex offender who had failed to check in with his parole officer since October 23rd. Authorities were unable to locate him until his arrest following the burglary.
During his arraignment, Rizzo’s defense attorney requested supervised release, citing his housing instability and mental health concerns. However, a judge ordered him held without bail and requested a psychological evaluation while in custody, recognizing the potential danger he poses.
The case raises serious questions about the safety of New Yorkers and the challenges of managing individuals with a history of violent offenses and mental health issues. The swiftness of the attacks and the escalating nature of the crimes have left the community shaken.
