By Sarina Trangle
State Assemblyman Michael Miller (D-Woodhaven) and state Sen. Joseph Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) plan to work with the city Department of Parks and Recreation to decide where to install 14 security cameras they hope will deter sexual predators in Forest Park.
The legislators allocated $250,000 for surveillance cameras after police linked the rape of a 69-year-old woman in the park this September to five additional rapes or attempted rapes over the past 2 1/2 years.
Authorities said the attacks targeted women between ages 13 and 69 near the park and occurred as early as 9:15 a.m. and as late as 6:30 p.m.
The NYPD said it has not identified any suspects related to the attacks.
Miller said the funding will cover seven NYPD surveillance units, which include two cameras apiece.
“We’re going to have the cameras looking at entrances to the park in locations where the cameras will work. We can’t put them where they’re surrounded by trees,” Miller said. “If the cameras are up there, the perpetrator will think twice knowing they’re on camera and also it will help police to identify someone in case something does happen.”
The assemblyman said he anticipates installation beginning in a few months.
Reach reporter Sarina Trangle at 718-260-4546 or by e-mail at strangle@cnglocal.com.
