Hunt pair of rapists in Jamaica area

Casey Strong, 22, and her friend Keisha Williams, also 22, walk in pairs these days, afraid that walking alone will render them prey for at least two reported rapists that have struck numerous times in the Jamaica area since last November.
Both agreed that, as females, they have to exercise extra caution.
“[We] try not to stay out late; we walk in groups, have somebody near you since the rapist is out there. We try to keep to ourselves,” said Strong.
The latest attempted sexual assault in the area happened on Monday, July 28, when a would-be rapist grabbed a 21-year-old woman as she got off a city bus at Yates Road and Sutphin Boulevard. He allegedly dragged her to Lakewood Avenue, where he groped her before she fought back - and won.
This attack may reportedly be linked to the string of others, although in the latest incident the perp was not armed with a knife or box cutter.
He is described as 5’6”, wearing a black sweatshirt and pants.
City Councilmember Leroy Comrie, who represents the area, is extremely concerned for the safety of his constituents.
“I am calling again for the Police Commissioner [Raymond W. Kelly] to form a rape task force,” said Comrie. “We want the police to lead the efforts to inform the community.”
Additionally, Comrie has plans to “expand what people are already doing” by working with the auxiliary police and local churches to arrange for women to be escorted to and from their destinations.
Noting that the New York Police Department (NYPD) has been cooperative in trying to put an end to the attacks, Comrie nevertheless said that he is “Asking the police to step up and increase” patrols, and that he is “asking the MTA [Metropolitan Transportation Authority] to make sure all bus stops are clear of debris and safe.”
“We’re obviously more vigilant in areas targeted by these individuals,” said a NYPD spokesperson. “We are actively looking for these individuals at these locations and actively working with the community and other [agencies].”
He also noted that people, especially women, should be aware and stay in well-lit areas.
Police are urging that everyone be aware and that anyone with information call Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS.
Comrie told The Courier that he will be holding a Town Hall meeting, open to the public, in early August.