Man Arrested After Randomly Punching Woman in Chelsea, NYPD Investigates Similar Attacks

Spate of Random Attacks on Women Has NYC on Edge

Since the release of a viral video about a woman being randomly assaulted in Chelsea, there has been growing concern in New York City about similar attacks targeting women. The incidents have prompted a citywide conversation about public safety and the handling of repeat offenders.

Arrest and Investigation

The New York Police Department (NYPD) has arrested Skiboky Stora, 40, for the assault on Halley Kate in which he reportedly punched her in the face while she was walking on Seventh Avenue near 17th Street. Stora is facing misdemeanor assault and harassment charges, and he has a history of similar assaults, with previous arrests in December following two other alleged attacks.

The NYPD has revealed that they are now investigating seven similar random attacks on women that occurred between March 25-27, mostly in Lower Manhattan. Stora has only been connected to the assault on Kate so far, but he remains a suspect in several other open cases.

Community Outcry

Kate's video, which has garnered tens of millions of views on TikTok, has shed light on a series of similar attacks on women in the city. Several women have come forward with their own accounts of being randomly assaulted, further amplifying concerns about public safety.

The NYPD is aware of a viral video circulating on social media depicting a woman who was randomly assaulted in an unprovoked attack. The individual has been arrested and charged and is a criminal recidivist with an extensive criminal record. Your NYPD detectives were able to identify the man after he was previously arrested for similar attacks, only to be released back onto our streets. This incident will be his third arrest in the past six months. Your officers will continue to remain resilient in their efforts to stop violent criminals, ensuring the safety of our communities. - NYPD statement

Justice System Scrutiny

The recent incidents have reignited concerns about the handling of repeat offenders by the justice system. Mayor Eric Adams has spoken out about the issue in the wake of these attacks, drawing parallels to the case of NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller, who was allegedly shot by a man previously arrested on a gun charge in April of 2023.

Call for Action

The series of assaults has prompted city officials and community leaders to call for action to address public safety concerns and the management of repeat offenders. There is a growing demand for measures to ensure the safety of women and the broader community in New York City.

As the investigation into these random attacks continues, authorities and advocates are working to address the underlying issues and provide reassurance to the public.