A disturbing incident unfolded in The Bronx, where a 70-year-old woman was the victim of an attempted rape by a man with a history of 19 prior arrests. Oswaldo Ramos, 50, targeted the elderly woman at Creston Avenue and East 184th Street in Fordham Heights around 1 p.m. on a Friday afternoon. Surveillance footage released by the NYPD captured the perpetrator scrambling to put his pants back on after the assault.
The following day, vigilant neighbors recognized Ramos from the video and took matters into their own hands. They confronted him at Tiebout Avenue and East 187th Street, delivering a beating that left him in need of medical attention. An anonymous tip led detectives to the hospital where Ramos was being treated for his injuries.
Ramos, a resident of the area, was eventually arrested and charged with attempted rape and burglary. His extensive criminal record includes prior arrests for robbery and burglary, with his most recent arrest occurring in 2018 for robbing a deli in the Bronx. During that incident, Ramos falsely claimed to have shot a police officer before demanding money from the store.
Despite his claims, Ramos had not actually shot anyone, and the outcome of that case remains unknown. His pattern of criminal behavior has primarily revolved around robbery and burglary offenses, making him a repeat offender with a propensity for violent crimes.
The community response to Ramos’ latest crime highlights the need for vigilance and solidarity in combating sexual violence and protecting vulnerable members of society. The swift action taken by concerned residents demonstrates the power of collective action in holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring justice for victims. As Ramos awaits his day in court, the community remains vigilant in safeguarding their neighborhood from further harm.