The suspect has been identified as 28-year-old Glenn Williams of Scarsdale, New York. He is charged with 1st degree attempted rape, robbery and related offenses.
Sources tell Eyewitness News that Williams was just released from Riverview Correctional Facility on parole in August. He was serving a two to four year sentence for criminal possession of a weapon. Williams has at least 55 prior arrests, sources said.
Authorities say Williams matched the description of the person caught on surveillance video following the attack.
He is accused of attacking a 20-year-old NYU student near Prince and Thompson streets around 1:15 a.m. on Tuesday, October 8.
On video, the suspect is seen hiding in a vestibule, moments after he allegedly tried to rape the student.
She told detectives she was walking alone and wearing headphones at the time of the attack. The victim was dragged between two parked cars where the man tried to assault her.
He took off after she screamed and resisted. He stole her bag in the process, and then he hid in the vestibule where he removed his coat before leaving as if nothing had happened.
"She was approached by an individual from behind punched in the head, attempted to drag her into an area. She was inappropriately touched and then the individual ran away," Police Commission Ray Kelly said.
Other women in the neighorhood told Eyewitness News that the attack was a reminder to be vigilant. Even in neighborhoods that have long been regarded as safe.
The victim was treated for injuries to her face.
