Introduction to the Incident
The suspect in a Sept. 1, 2025 attempted rape at a Midtown nail salon.
The suspect in the incident has been identified and arrested.
The suspect in a Sept. 1, 2025 attempted rape at a Midtown nail salon.
NYPD
Arrest and Charges
Police arrested a 35-year-old Manhattanville man on Saturday for the attempted rape of a woman inside a Midtown business on Labor Day.
Joseph Wichard was charged with attempted rape and sex abuse on Sept. 6 at the 26th Precinct, the NYPD said Monday.
His arrest followed a manhunt launched last week for the perpetrator behind the attack inside a nail salon near the corner of West 36th Street and Broadway in Manhattan at 6 p.m. on Sept. 1.
Details of the Attack
The 34-year-old victim told police last week that she did not know the perpetrator who sexually assaulted her.
Police sources say the suspect allegedly lunged at a 34-year-old employee and grabbed her by the arm before pulling her into a back room. There, according to sources, Wichard allegedly threw her to the ground and launched his attack, biting her and attempting to rip off her pants and underwear.
During the assault, sources say the victim was able to grab a nearby object and fight off her attacker.
Aftermath and Investigation
EMS took the victim to a local area hospital for treatment following the Sept. 1 attack. The case was reported to the Midtown South Precinct.
The NYPD launched an investigation into the incident, which led to the arrest of the suspect.
Conclusion
The arrest of Joseph Wichard brings a sense of relief to the community, but it also highlights the need for continued vigilance and support for victims of sexual assault. The bravery of the victim in fighting off her attacker and reporting the incident to the authorities is commendable, and it is essential that we continue to work together to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
FAQs
Q: What was the location of the attempted rape incident?
A: The incident occurred at a nail salon near the corner of West 36th Street and Broadway in Manhattan.
Q: What were the charges filed against the suspect?
A: The suspect, Joseph Wichard, was charged with attempted rape and sex abuse.
Q: How did the victim manage to escape the attack?
A: The victim was able to grab a nearby object and fight off her attacker.
Q: What is the current status of the victim?
A: The victim was taken to a local area hospital for treatment and is expected to recover from her injuries.
