Home / Crime and Justice / NYU Student Attacker's Violent Past Revealed
NYU Student Attacker's Violent Past Revealed
4 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Suspect James Rizzo has 16 prior arrests, including attempted murder.
- Rizzo, a level-two sex offender, allegedly assaulted two women recently.
- He was on parole after an earlier conviction and has mental illness history.
A man charged with the recent random assault of an NYU student, James Rizzo, has a deeply concerning criminal history. His record includes 16 previous arrests, with allegations spanning sex abuse and even attempted murder. This history has come to light as he faces new charges following his arrest.
Rizzo, identified as a level-two sex offender, is accused of multiple violent acts against women. Prior to the NYU student's attack, he allegedly assaulted a 68-year-old woman on Thanksgiving night, requiring stitches. He was apprehended after breaking into NYU housing, where he had been residing undetected among students.
Paroled in September, Rizzo has a documented history of mental illness. A judge ordered a psychiatric evaluation, and he is scheduled for further court appearances regarding parole violations and the new charges. The assault on the NYU student has raised significant alarm within the community.
