Police release suspect photos in rape of 12-year-old girl in NYC: police
EAST HARLEM, Manhattan (PIX11) – Police released images of two suspects who allegedly raped a 12-year-old girl on the roof of a NYCHA building in East Harlem Sunday evening, authorities said.
It happened at a building at the Jefferson Houses on East 112th Street near First Avenue around 6:30 p.m., according to police.
Two people forced the 12-year-old girl to go to the roof of a seven-story building and then raped her, police said.
The girl was taken to a hospital after she reported the crime.
Police released surveillance images showing the two male suspects, who haven’t been caught. Investigators believe the suspects are both teenagers.
Police officers distributed flyers of the suspects around the neighborhood. Residents had messages for the girl, encouraging her to be strong.
"Sweetheart, you're not alone," said Shary Morales, a local resident. "You're not alone," she continued. "Don't be afraid."
A resident also had a message for the suspects.
"I hope the person who did this, they have a conscience," said Abimael Classen, another local resident. "Come to the precinct," he pleaded with the suspects. "Give yourself in. It'll be better."
PIX11 News reached out to NYCHA for comment, but it referred all inquiries to the NYPD.