Video captures random attack on NYU student, slapped from behind and thrown to ground

A New York University student reported being violently assaulted while heading to class, with the attack recorded on surveillance video. Amelia Lewis shared the experience in two social media videos, explaining how a man followed her and struck her from behind on Broadway.

"When I turned around, I saw a man and he grabbed my hair and threw me to the ground," Lewis recounted. The footage shows a group of young women helping her up after she was knocked down.

The surveillance video was obtained from a nearby store by a friend. Lewis described the attacker as a tall man with long brown hair and a beard, wearing gray sweatpants, a black puffer jacket, and a blue towel around his neck. She sent the footage to NYU security, who then passed it to local police.

John Beckman, a spokesperson for NYU, said, "The University is pleased a suspect has been apprehended. We are continuing to support the student, and our Campus Safety Department assisted the victim and worked with law enforcement."

Lewis expressed her fear and anger in the videos: "I shouldnt be afraid to walk to my 9:30 a.m. class. Incidents like this shouldnt happen, and people should not be able to freely target women. Im shocked and frustrated that this city allows such attacks."

The NYPD confirmed that 45-year-old James Rizzo has been taken into custody and charged with persistent sexual abuse, forcible touching, and assault. Rizzo has a prior record with 16 previous arrests.

Lewis urged fellow students to remain vigilant while walking around the city. "It was the scariest experience of my life. I never imagined it could happen to me, but now it has, and its terrifying," she said.

Author: Sophia Brooks