Introduction to the Case
A Queens man arrested Sunday for the alleged attempted rape of a 12-year-old girl in Brooklyn targeted other young victims in two earlier incidents and had been released without bail just over a week before the latest attack, police and court records show.
The Alleged Attempted Rape
Justin Lee, 22, of Queens Village, was arrested Oct. 5 and charged in the alleged attempted rape of a 12-year-old girl in Brooklyn.
Brooklyn Special Victims Squad detectives charged Justin Lee, 22, of Queens Village, on Oct. 5 with attempted rape, strangulation, and burglary in connection with an early-morning attack on Oct. 4 within the 60th Precinct in southern Brooklyn.
Details of the Attack
According to police, Lee allegedly broke into a private residence where a 12-year-old girl was located and tried to rape her. The burglary charge stems from his unlawful entry into the home, while the strangulation charge is related to actions taken “within the act,” police sources said.
Court records show Lee faces 18 counts related to the Oct. 4 attack, including first-degree rape of a victim under 13, sexually motivated burglary in the second and third degrees, sexual abuse of a victim under 13, forcible touching, criminal obstruction of breathing, assault with intent to cause physical injury, endangering the welfare of a child, criminal trespass, harassment, and possession of a knife with a blade longer than four inches.
Earlier Incidents
Court filings indicate Lee was already facing multiple charges stemming from two separate incidents just hours apart on Sept. 26, also in Brooklyn, involving minors.
According to a criminal complaint filed in Kings County Criminal Court, Lee is accused of following and assaulting two girls, 13 and 14, in separate attacks along Ocean Parkway—one around 1:05 p.m. and another around 6:55 p.m., both in Kensington apartment buildings.
In the first case, investigators said Lee followed a child into her apartment building lobby, grabbed her by the neck from behind and pushed her against a wall before fleeing when she screamed. Later that day, Lee allegedly followed another minor into a nearby building, grabbed her by the arm in a bear hug and ran off when she cried out.
Surveillance footage from both locations allegedly shows Lee wearing the same clothing — a black hooded sweatshirt, a red Mario Kart shirt, gray sweatpants and white sneakers. Police said Lee later told investigators, “I scared a girl because I grabbed her.”
Release and New Charges
Lee was arrested in the early hours of Sept. 27 and faces multiple charges in the Sept. 26 cases, including burglary, attempted burglary, endangering the welfare of a child, harassment and trespass, according to court filings. He pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Court records show Lee was released from custody by Judge Christopher Whitehair on Sept. 27 without bail while the case was pending. He was scheduled to next appear in court on Jan. 29, 2026.
Call for Victims to Come Forward
In the meantime, the NYPD is urging anyone who may have been sexually abused by the suspect to contact them as they look to build their criminal case.
Anyone who may have been sexually abused by the suspect is urged to contact the NYPD Sex Crimes Hotline at 212-267-RAPE (7273) or the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-577-TIPS (for Spanish, dial 888-57-PISTA). Tips can also be submitted online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org or via X (formerly Twitter) @NYPDTips.
Conclusion
The case of Justin Lee highlights the importance of vigilance and swift action in preventing and addressing sexual abuse. The release of Lee without bail after earlier incidents raises questions about the justice system’s handling of such cases. It is crucial for the community to come together to support victims and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
FAQs
- Q: What are the charges against Justin Lee?
A: Justin Lee faces charges including attempted rape, strangulation, burglary, and multiple counts related to the assault of minors. - Q: Was Lee previously arrested for similar offenses?
A: Yes, Lee was arrested for incidents involving minors on Sept. 26 and was released without bail. - Q: How can victims or those with information contact the authorities?
A: Victims or individuals with information can contact the NYPD Sex Crimes Hotline or the Crime Stoppers Hotline, or submit tips online or via social media. - Q: What is the status of Lee’s court case?
A: As of the last update, Lee had not yet been arraigned on the latest charges and was scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 29, 2026, for the earlier cases.
