You are reading

East Elmhurst Man Indicted in Connection to Violent Home Invasion and Attempted Rape

An East Elmhurst man was indicted Tuesday in connection to a home invasion that took place in Jamaica, Queens in July. (Photo: iStock)

Dec. 14, 2022 By Christian Murray

An East Elmhurst man has been indicted in connection to a violent home invasion—and attempted rape—that took place in Jamaica, Queens earlier this year.

Michael Rispers, 36, was arraigned Tuesday on a 13-count indictment charging him with burglary, robbery, assault, attempted rape, strangulation, and other charges.

“The reign of terror allegedly perpetrated by this defendant will not go unanswered. We fully expect to be safe in our own homes,” said Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz in a statement.

According to the charges, Rispers burst into a house on 144th Place at around 8:20 a.m. on July 25 and then walked into the bedroom of a 58-year-old female resident and proceeded to punch and strangle her while demanding money. He then pulled out a sharp metal object, according to court documents, and inflicted lacerations to the woman’s arms while a struggle ensued.

Rispers then threw the woman down, unzipped his pants and attempted to remove her clothing, according to the charges.

A male family member heard the woman’s screams and kicked in the door, interrupting the attack. According to court records, Rispers threatened the man with the metal object and demanded money. He then allegedly proceeded to grab a wallet from the bedroom of a third family member before fleeing.

Rispers was apprehended by police near the home shortly after the incident. A wallet belonging one of the victim’s was recovered from Rispers at the time of the arrest.

The victims did not know Rispers prior to the attack, according to authorities.

If convicted Rispers faces up to 25 years in prison. His next court date is Feb. 21, 2023.

email the author: news@queenspost.com
No comments yet

Leave a Comment
Reply to this Comment

All comments are subject to moderation before being posted.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Recent News

Hard Rock CEO outlines vendor opportunities for $8B Metropolitan Park casino project

May. 2, 2025 By Shane O’Brien

Hard Rock International Chairman and CEO Jim Allen addressed hundreds of Queens-based vendors and small business owners Thursday morning at the Queens Theatre, outlining how they could play a key role in shaping the proposed $8 billion Metropolitan Park casino and entertainment complex near Citi Field—if the project is awarded one of the three downstate gaming licenses up for grabs later this year.

Beyond brunch: Unique ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in Queens

May. 2, 2025 By Jessica Militello

With Mother’s Day just over a week away, there’s still plenty of time to plan something meaningful in Queens to celebrate the special women in your life. While brunch or dinner is always a classic choice, there are also unique and memorable ways to mark the occasion with family and friends. From candle-making workshops and floral arranging classes to beer tastings and hands-on crafting, here are some fun and heartfelt ways to celebrate Mother’s Day right here in the community.