The individual charged with attempting to rape a woman in a Manhattan subway station had a history of criminal activity, with multiple prior arrests and lenient sentences, allowing him to continue his predatory behavior, according to The Post.
Lamel Batten, 44, a homeless career criminal with 51 prior arrests, received a 15-day jail sentence in 2023 for committing lewd acts on Manhattan trains. Despite his extensive criminal record, Batten only served a short sentence for these offenses.
Despite multiple warrants and previous arrests, Batten was only sentenced to four months in jail this year for stealing laptops. His criminal behavior continued, with additional incidents of public lewdness and theft.
On the night of the recent violent crime, Batten allegedly attempted to rape a woman at the subway station, highlighting the failure of the justice system to address repeat offenders like him.
The lenient sentencing of Batten for previous offenses allowed him to remain on the streets, posing a threat to public safety. The authorities’ failure to address his criminal behavior raises questions about public safety measures in the city.
These incidents shed light on the challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with repeat offenders and the need for stricter penalties for individuals like Batten.
