A harrowing incident unfolded in Central Park on Monday, March 23, when a 30-year-old parolee allegedly attempted to commit a heinous crime against a 45-year-old woman. Lateef Caldwell, a resident of a Wards Island shelter, was on the streets just nine months after being released from prison, serving a three-year sentence for a similar offense in Manhattan.
According to police and court records, Caldwell attacked the woman near 109th Street and East Drive at approximately 5:40 p.m. Fortunately, bystanders intervened, thwarting the suspect's plans. The victim, who was wearing a hijab at the time, did not report any injuries. Caldwell attempted to flee but was apprehended by law enforcement at 106th Street and East Drive.
The accused has a troubling history of similar offenses, with the most recent incident occurring in April 2022, when he allegedly tackled a 23-year-old woman to the ground in the East Village. Caldwell's bizarre defense for the crime, as stated in court documents, is shocking: he claimed the encounter was a misunderstanding and that he had an erection when it happened. He was initially charged with attempted rape and attempted sexual abuse but eventually pleaded guilty to a lesser charge and received a sentence of three years in prison plus five years of post-release supervision.
Caldwell now faces charges of attempted rape, attempted sexual assault, and sexual abuse, following the Central Park incident. His actions have been met with swift justice,
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