It seems the old saying about a “free lunch” might apply to free hugs, too, after aCanadian tourist reportedly said she was attacked Thursday afternoon by a man offering the service in Times Square. The victim, a 22-year-old woman, was punched after she declined to pay the man a tip, police told 7 ABC News. She reportedly suffered a black eye.
“Free hugs” aren’t necessarily free in Times Square. This woman learned that lesson today… https://t.co/dAIhIQ7UaS pic.twitter.com/bIZSiw9YDM
— Eyewitness News (@ABC7NY) May 12, 2016
The tourist saved a photo of her assailant on a cellphone, which she was able to give to investigators,DNAinfo reported. Department Chief James O’Neill also reportedly said at a press conference that the suspect, who wasn’t identified, “is no stranger” to the department, adding he has “multiple prior arrests,” including some for assault.