The suspect accused of sexually abusing a Manhattan laundromat worker earlier this year was turned loose on supervised release Wednesday even as prosecutors moved to upgrade the charges.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office said 38-year-old Anthony Albertorio was indicted on April 30 for the sexual abuse of a store worker on Feb. 25.
According to court documents, Albertorio allegedly walked into an Inwood laundromat at around 7:55 p.m. that night and approached a 41-year-old employee.
Backing her into a corner, prosecutors said, he allegedly grabbed her by her hair and shoulders and began kissing her as she desperately tried to push him off. The attack was witnessed by a bystander who said they saw Albertorio. He was arrested nine days later.
“This alleged abuse is extremely disturbing and no employee should have to endure this at their place of work,” Bragg said. “Our thorough investigation has led to upgraded charges against this defendant, as he is now charged with two serious felonies, demonstrating how abhorrent the allegations are and how seriously we are taking this matter.”
Locals say that Albertorio has been a menace to the Inwood and Harlem area, alleging that he is known to stalk and harass women and children, so much so that some began disseminating safety fliers warning of his actions.
“He has been stalking, harassing, threatening and assaulting the women and children,” Instagram user Javier Muñoz wrote of Albertorio. “Both at 175th St and 181st neighborhood. He has also harassed me and attempted assault, (which is why I moved). Currently, he has friends and family in my new building and has begun harassing me here in East Harlem. He is dangerous as are his friends. If you encounter this man please seek out others.”
Albertorio is charged with two counts of sexual abuse, burglary, and forcible touching.
At his criminal court arraignment, however, Albertorio made bail.
On April 30, in light of the upgraded charges, prosecutors sought a $50,000 cash / $150,000 Insurance Company Bond / Partially Secured Surety Bond to keep him inside. However, the judge granted Albertorio supervised release.
