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NYU Student Attack Sparks Debate Over Park Safety

12/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

New York University student Amelia Lewis was attacked by a homeless man, prompting sadness over perceived loss of Washington Square Park's community.
Students say the crackdown on homelessness and drug activity removed people they regarded as part of the park's character.
Local residents welcomed more police, citing safety concerns from rising crime, including 14 rapes and 71 other sex crimes reported in 2025.

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Story summary

New York University student Amelia Lewis was attacked by a homeless man, prompting sadness over perceived loss of Washington Square Park's community.
Students say the crackdown on homelessness and drug activity removed people they regarded as part of the park's character.
Local residents welcomed more police, citing safety concerns from rising crime, including 14 rapes and 71 other sex crimes reported in 2025.