NEW YORK – Police in Chelsea, New York, have apprehended a man for allegedly assaulting a woman by punching her in the face without provocation. The incident gained widespread attention after a viral TikTok video posted by the victim, Halley Kate. Following this arrest, the NYPD is investigating seven similar random attacks on women that occurred between March 25-27 in various neighborhoods across the city, including Chinatown, the West Village, Chelsea, and Midtown.
According to sources, all the female victims were targeted while walking and were physically assaulted by being punched in the head. Julie Menin, co-chair of the City Council’s women’s caucus, expressed concern over these violent acts, emphasizing the need to raise awareness and ensure the safety of women in the community. The newly arrested suspect, Skiboky Stora, was charged with misdemeanor assault and harassment for attacking Kate near Seventh Avenue and 17th Street.
Stora, a repeat offender with a history of similar assaults, was previously arrested in December for two other alleged assaults. Although Stora has been connected to the assault on Kate, he remains a suspect in several other ongoing cases. Other women have come forward on social media, sharing their own experiences of random attacks, further highlighting the alarming trend of unprovoked violence against women in public spaces.
One victim, who had her jaw broken in an assault in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, shared her harrowing story with “Inside Edition,” underscoring the severe physical consequences of such attacks. The NYPD responded to Kate’s case by emphasizing the suspect’s extensive criminal record and their ongoing efforts to combat violent crime in the city. Mayor Eric Adams previously addressed concerns about repeat offenders within the justice system, citing recent incidents involving assaults on NYPD officers.
As investigations continue, the police urge any additional victims to step forward and report similar incidents for further action. The community remains vigilant as authorities work to ensure the safety and security of residents, particularly women who may be vulnerable to such random attacks in public spaces.