Man charged with attempted rape and sexual assault in Central Park attack: NYPD

The NYPD has released a sketch of the suspect who allegedly attempted to sexually assault a woman sunbathing in Central Park on June 24, 2024, police said. (Courtesy of NYPD)

MANHATTAN, NY (PIX11) — A suspect has been charged in connection with an alleged attempt to rape a sunbather in Central Park last week, according to NYPD Criminal Investigation Chief Joseph Kenny.

Jermaine Longmire, 42, was charged with attempted rape and sexual abuse on Wednesday, police officials said.

The man is suspected of exposing himself to a 21-year-old woman sunbathing in the park near West Drive and West 104th Street around 1:35 p.m. on June 24, according to NYPD Patrol Chief John Chell. As she ran away, he grabbed her from behind and the young woman fought him off, police said.

According to police officials, investigators were able to identify the suspected attacker using DNA from the sunbather’s bikini bottoms.

Longmire is also accused of sexually assaulting two women on public transit last year, police officials said.

This is a developing story. Refresh the page for updates.