Queens, New York – A 19-year-old man, Donovan Simmon, was arrested on Tuesday for attempting to rape a 21-year-old woman inside a subway station in Jamaica, Queens. The incident occurred on February 24th at the 169th Street station. Simmon faces charges of attempted rape, unlawful imprisonment, assault, and lewdness in connection to the attack.
The victim, identified as Jamileth, was on her way home after finishing a night shift when she encountered Simmon on the subway. After noticing him staring at her, she tried to exit at 169th Street, but he blocked the doors and acted inappropriately. Despite waiting on the platform to ensure he had left, Simmon followed her to the mezzanine level and attacked her in a secluded area of the station.
During the assault, Simmon punched Jamileth multiple times, attempted to remove her clothes, and dragged her behind a wall. Thankfully, a security guard heard her cries for help and intervened, causing the assailant to flee. Jamileth, who recently immigrated from Ecuador, was treated for her injuries at a hospital and has since changed her work schedule to avoid night shifts.
Simmon, with prior arrests for robbery, public lewdness, and fare evasion, remains in custody. The victim expressed her ongoing fear and trauma following the attack, highlighting the lasting impact of such incidents on survivors. She emphasized the importance of safety measures and vigilance when traveling alone, especially late at night.
In response to the incident, authorities remind individuals in New York who have experienced sexual assault to seek help through confidential crisis counseling services. The National Sexual Assault hotline also provides support for those outside the state. The arrest of Simmon serves as a reminder of the importance of reporting and addressing acts of violence to ensure the safety of all individuals in public spaces.