A Queens man who allegedly robbed a 24-year-old woman at knifepoint on a M train in Long Island City last month faces up to 25 years in prison (iStock)
Dec. 9, 2022 By Christian Murray
A Rego Park man has been indicted for allegedly robbing a woman at knife point–and then groping her–on a M train while it was in the Dutch Kills section of Long Island City last month.
Abel Pita Aviles, 36, was arraigned Friday for allegedly robbing a 24-year-old woman on a M train as it approached the 36th Street station on Nov. 11 at approximately 8:45 a.m.
Aviles allegedly pointed a knife at the victim and demanded her money and iPhone. She handed over the items, before he allegedly pinned her to the subway seat and forcibly groped her and then fled the train.
“This shameful attack inside our subway system will not go unanswered,” said Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz in a statement. “My office will use all tools at our disposal to protect commuters from violence inside our trains. Every New Yorker should expect to be able to travel safely using public transportation.”
Aviles, who is in custody, has been charged with robbery in the first degree, sexual abuse in the first degree, forcible touching, and criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree. He faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted.
He has been ordered to return to court on Jan. 17, 2023.
