Infamous Sex Offender Peter Braunstein Faces Parole Hearing
Former Fashion Writer’s Bid for Freedom Sparks Outrage
Peter Braunstein, a convicted sexual predator notorious for a brutal attack in New York City in 2005, is set to appear before the state Parole Board during the week of August 18. Having spent 18 years incarcerated, Braunstein’s potential release has raised alarms among advocates for victims of violence and the public alike.
A Sinister Crime
Braunstein, now 61, infamously posed as a firefighter to gain entry into a Chelsea apartment where he attacked a co-worker he had fixated on. On Halloween night in 2005, he set a fire outside her home and, once inside, chloroformed the victim, subsequently stripping and binding her before subjecting her to more than 13 hours of sexual abuse. He left a disturbing note on her mirror saying, “Bye — Hope things turn around for U soon.”
Already on probation for a previous violent incident, Braunstein’s actions alarmed law enforcement and led to a nationwide manhunt after he fled the scene. He was apprehended in December 2005 at the University of Memphis, where he attempted to take his own life shortly before his arrest.
Confessions and Convictions
During his trial, which garnered significant media attention, Braunstein was convicted of multiple charges, including kidnapping and sexual abuse, on May 23, 2007. He was sentenced to an indeterminate term of 18 years to life in prison. Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Thomas Farber expressed disdain for Braunstein’s evident disregard for his victim, stating he displayed "true apathy" during the proceedings.
Despite the gravity of his crimes, Braunstein has shown little remorse. In a jailhouse interview, he admitted, “It’s a good thing that I’m locked up, because I’ve been having violent fantasies. I don’t know what I’m capable of.”
Criticism of Parole Process
Braunstein’s upcoming parole hearing arrives amid scrutiny over New York’s Parole Board, which has been criticized for releasing numerous violent offenders, raising concerns about public safety. Victim’s rights advocates, including Jane Manning from the group Women’s Equal Justice, urge that Braunstein should remain behind bars. “His crimes were exceptionally vicious,” she stated. “He vowed to reoffend if given a chance. He should never be released.”
As the hearing looms closer, the debate surrounding Braunstein’s potential freedom intensifies. Updates regarding the exact date of the hearing and the board’s decision will be forthcoming.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.