DiBlasio questions NYPD’s response preceding rape cape - New York News | NYC Breaking News

Public Advocate Bill de Blasio is calling the NYPD for answers regarding a prior confrontation involving the victim and the suspect David Mitchell in the Central Park sexual assault last week.  

DiBlasio sent a letter to the NYPD and Parks Department Saturday questioning why no formal report was filed two weeks ago, what policies are in place to respond when allegations of criminal conduct are brought forward.  

The Public Advocate also asked if there are sufficient resources to protect park-goers in- light of sustained budget cuts. 

DiBlasi said he's concerned over a report in Saturday's New York Times where the 73-year-old woman who was raped in Central Park had come forward after an earlier encounter with her attacker. Despite coming forward there was no apparent enforcement or investigaton taken, according to BiBlasio. 

NYPD Deputy Commissioner Paul J. Browne responded later Saturday evening saying "There is no record of the park ranger informing the NYPD of the initial encounter."

In his letter, DiBlasio also states, "These deeply troubling incidents raise serious, pressing concerns over the capacity of the Department of Parks and Recreation and New York City Police Department to ensure the security and safety of our public spaces." 

Mitchell, 42, was taken into custody late Wednesday for questioning. He faces predatory sexual assault, rape, criminal sex act, and robbery assault charges.