Central Park, one of New York City’s busiest public spaces, is seeing a troubling surge in violent incidents this year. NYPD data for 2025 shows serious assaults up 58% and non-rape sex crimes up a staggering 146%, raising fresh concerns for millions of locals and tourists.
Assaults Rising Fast
So far, 19 felony assaults have been reported in the park — up from 12 during the same period last year.
Compared to two years ago, serious assaults have climbed 138%, and over the last 15 years, they’ve jumped 280%, according to police data.
Sex Crimes See Major Spike
“Other sex crimes,” which include offenses short of rape, have increased from 11 cases in 2024 to 27 this year.
One such case involved a 22-year-old New Jersey woman, who was speaking on the phone near West Drive and Center Drive on Sept. 26 when a stranger approached her — and suddenly groped her. He fled the scene. No arrests have been made.
In another incident, a woman walking with her husband near 72nd Street on Aug. 28 was slapped on the rear by a man riding a one-wheel scooter. He too vanished into the night.
Park Visitors on Edge
Visitors say the rise in incidents has changed how they move around the park.
“I wouldn’t walk here alone,” said Vena Watson, 45, who was visiting with her husband.
Tom Moore, a superintendent who works near the park, blamed elected officials for the increase.
“It’s been escalating since 2020 because of bulls–t policies like no cash bail,” Moore, 60, said. “I have my head on a swivel… I feel scared going out at night.”
A Violent August Spree
On Aug. 25, a homeless man allegedly carried out two random assaults inside the park.
Police say David Luciano, 27, attacked an 18-year-old around 1:20 a.m., choking, punching and kicking him before running off.
Thirty minutes later, he allegedly assaulted a 37-year-old man, choking him and biting his ear.
Luciano was arrested shortly after and charged with assault and criminal obstruction of breathing.
Because the charges were not bail-eligible, he was released — and later failed to appear in court.
More Attacks Reported
- On Nov. 5, a 51-year-old woman was struck in the head and robbed by two people on a foldable e-bike. They stole her headphones and fled. No arrests have been made.
- Lifelong New Yorker Tony Martinez, 53, said he’s hearing more reports than ever:
“I wouldn’t tell anyone vulnerable to go out at night.” - Tourists Laurie and Ross McDonagh, visiting from England, said they’ve seen multiple emotionally disturbed individuals in and around the park.
“It’s scary at night. I wouldn’t walk alone.”
Overall Crime Down — But Serious Offenses Rising
A police spokesperson said overall crime in Central Park is down 22.1% this year.
But officials also noted that 40% of the “other sex crimes” category involves public lewdness, not assault.
Still, the steep rise in violent incidents has left many New Yorkers feeling less safe in what is supposed to be the city’s most iconic escape.