Rochester, NY – A Syracuse man has been arrested following an alleged incident involving a female staff member near St. John Fisher University, prompting renewed concerns about public safety in the area.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the incident was reported Sunday morning after it allegedly occurred around 7:50 a.m. as the victim walked from a bus stop on Fairport Road toward campus. Investigators say the suspect, later identified as 32-year-old Ramel Bell-Scott, allegedly followed the victim before approaching her from behind and forcibly subjecting her to unwanted physical contact. Authorities further allege that when the victim turned to confront him, Bell-Scott had exposed himself.
The victim was not physically injured and was able to reach a campus building, where she immediately reported the incident to security.
Following a multi-agency investigation, Bell-Scott was taken into custody Thursday in the City of Rochester. Officials said the case involved coordinated efforts, including reviewing campus surveillance footage, working with Regional Transit Service to trace the suspect’s bus activity, and collaboration with the Irondequoit Police Department, which ultimately identified him.
Bell-Scott is charged with forcible touching, stalking in the fourth degree, and public lewdness, all of which authorities allege stem from the March 15 encounter. Deputies also confirmed he allegedly has an active warrant out of Syracuse for criminal mischief.
He was arraigned Thursday evening and remanded to the Monroe County Jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,500 bond. An order of protection has been issued for the victim.
Sheriff Todd K. Baxter said Bell-Scott allegedly has a prior criminal history and described him as a repeat offender, emphasizing the need for stronger legal tools to address such cases.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with similar alleged encounters or relevant information to contact the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
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