Paroled Homeless Man's Central Park Rape Attempt Thwarted by Bystanders
A homeless man on parole was arrested after allegedly attempting to rape a woman in New York City's Central Park, with the assault being stopped by the intervention of good Samaritans, according to police and sources on Tuesday, March 24.
Details of the Alleged Assault
Lateef Caldwell, a 30-year-old resident of a Wards Island shelter, is accused of attacking a 45-year-old victim at approximately 5:40 p.m. on Monday, March 23, near 109th Street and East Drive. Law enforcement sources reported that the victim, who was wearing a hijab and identified as Muslim, did not sustain any physical injuries during the incident.
The assailant attempted to flee the scene but was captured by police officers at 106th Street and East Drive. Caldwell has been charged with attempted rape, attempted sexual assault, and sexual abuse in connection with this case.
History of Similar Offenses
This alleged attack occurred less than a year after Caldwell was released on parole for a previous sexual abuse conviction. In April 2022, he was involved in a similar incident in Manhattan's East Village, where he allegedly tackled a 23-year-old stranger to the ground on East 13th Street and attempted to remove her pants while straddling her.
Following his arrest for that crime, Caldwell provided investigators with an unusual explanation, stating through court documents, "I recognize her. I had a disturbance with her that was a misunderstanding. I bumped into her and fell with her to the ground. I had an erection when it happened."
Initially charged with attempted rape and attempted sexual abuse in the first degree, Caldwell ultimately pleaded guilty to a lesser charge. He received a sentence of three years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision.
Legal Proceedings and Parole Status
State Corrections records indicate that Caldwell served time in an upstate prison from March 21, 2023, until April 15, 2025, for the previous offense. His current parole is scheduled to expire in 2029.
The arraignment for Caldwell's new case was pending as of Tuesday night, with authorities continuing their investigation into the Central Park incident. The quick response from bystanders and law enforcement prevented what could have been a more severe outcome, highlighting the importance of community vigilance in public spaces.
