Shocking rise in number of rapes and sexual assaults in Irish sections of the Bronx

In response Aisling Center to host a self-defense workshop

By

CAHIR O'DOHERTY,

Irish Voice Reporter

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Worrying increase in attacks taking place in Irish community in the Bronx

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“I don’t want to frighten the daylights out of people but I do think it’s important they get the message to stay together and watch out for each other.”

When the Irish are out at night all inhibitions can go out the window when they’re enjoying a few drinks, Kelleher adds. “And you think you trust your own. When I say that I mean other Irish people. But we would ask people to be especially cautious because it is know this attacker is Irish.”

The Aisling Center will present an information session on Thursday with a representative from the victim’s assistance services, a representative from the NYPD and then they’ll host a workshop in self-defense. “We would urge everyone in the community to come out on the night. We want to raise awareness of these attackers in the area. We especially hope that anyone who has been the victim of any kind of assault to attend. Our hope is that we can help everyone including friends and family members on how to help and support victims of assault.”

Experienced child minders will be available at the center to provide babysitting services if necessary. In the meantime, the Aisling Center is distributing posters to local businesses to raise awareness of the increased reports of rape and assault being committed in the neighborhood.

“What is particularly disturbing is that these incidents are happening right in this neighborhood,” says Kelleher. “Some of the attackers have been identified by their victims as being Irish born and living in the local community.”

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