Assaults near University Hospitals this morning

Between 5:20 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., Monday, July 31, two women were approached from behind in separate incidents by a man who pushed each against a wall and fondled them. The first incident occurred on East 57th Street between University and Ellis Avenue, and the second on South Ellis Avenue between 57th and 58th Streets. The man was described in both incidents as an African American in his 20's, about 6 feet, 190, with his hair in neck-length braids, and wearing a black baggy shirt and black baggy pants. Both stepped away from the offender and left him quickly. Neither victim was injured. Both victims described him as staring at them afterwards and “snickering.” Police are investigating.