A 19-year-old man, Donovan Simmon, has been apprehended and charged with attempted rape, unlawful imprisonment, assault, and lewdness in connection to a horrifying incident that occurred on February 24th inside the 169th Street subway station in Jamaica, Queens. The victim, identified as Jamileth, shared her harrowing experience with ABC 7 Eyewitness News.
Jamileth, a 21-year-old woman who recently migrated from Ecuador to the United States, recounted that she was on her way home after finishing her night shift cleaning offices. While resting her eyes in the subway car, she suddenly noticed a man staring at her. As she attempted to exit the train at 169th Street, the assailant blocked the doors while engaging in a lewd act.
Upon disembarking, Jamileth waited on the platform to ensure the man had left. However, to her horror, he was waiting for her on the mezzanine level. He followed her down a secluded passageway until they reached an area hidden from public view. There, he launched a violent attack, knocking her down, dragging her behind a wall, and repeatedly punching her in the face. The assailant also attempted to remove her clothes.
Despite her desperate struggle and cries for help, the assailant tried to silence Jamileth. Fortunately, a security guard stationed inside the subway station heard her pleas and rushed to her aid. The guard’s intervention frightened off the would-be rapist.
In the aftermath of the attack, Jamileth expressed her ongoing fear and anxiety, stating that she constantly feels someone is following her. She shared her distress, saying, “I can’t walk calmly. I always think that someone is following. I don’t know what to do. I feel terrible.” Jamileth sought medical treatment for her injuries and has since switched to working a day shift.
Donovan Simmon, the suspect in this case, has a history of previous arrests for robbery, public lewdness, and fare evasion, according to the police.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures and vigilance while using public transportation. Authorities are urging commuters to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement.
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While it is important to acknowledge the seriousness of the charges against Donovan Simmon, it is also crucial to remember that he is innocent until proven guilty. The media often sensationalizes cases like these, leading to a rush to judgment and the assumption of guilt before all the facts are presented. It is important to allow the legal process to unfold and for Simmon to have a fair trial before making any definitive conclusions about his guilt or innocence. Jumping to conclusions without all the evidence can lead to unfair treatment