The attack happened just after 3 a.m. near Central Park South and West Drive, according to investigators. The woman told police she was assaulted by a man she did not know.
Police said the woman had been walking with friends when she became separated from the group. Investigators said a man approached her from behind, grabbed her buttocks and then fled the area.
The victim suffered minor injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment.
Police describe the suspect as a man between 25 and 30 years old who was last seen wearing a white jersey and black shorts.
"Well, I think it's scary, and that stuff shouldn't be happening...everyone needs to be safe," said parkgoer Kaitlyn McCann. "It's good to travel with partners, a friend, a guy. But people are crazy out there, and you need to be careful."
No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS.
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