Long Island, NY – A 53-year-old Long Island man has been arrested for the third time in three months after allegedly attempting to take inappropriate photos of women at a Selden shopping plaza, authorities said. Aqeel Ahmad faces multiple unlawful surveillance charges, stemming from incidents at both a Target and ShopRite in the same plaza.
Third Arrest After Alleged Predatory Behavior
Police said Ahmad was apprehended on Sunday following a probe that revealed a pattern of predatory behavior. On Sept. 11, he allegedly attempted to take photos up the dress of a 25-year-old woman while she shopped inside the ShopRite, resulting in a third unlawful surveillance charge.
Investigators noted that Ahmad’s actions follow a troubling pattern of misconduct in the same shopping center, previously highlighted during his October arrest at a Target, where he was accused of snapping photos up the skirt of a 13-year-old girl inside a women’s dressing room. In that case, the victim’s father reportedly chased Ahmad out of the store after witnessing the act.
Prior Arrests and Charges
Ahmad was also arrested in November and charged with a second count of unlawful surveillance after police discovered he had tried to take similar photos of a 17-year-old girl inside the same ShopRite. Authorities say the incidents indicate that Ahmad had been using the shopping plaza as a predatory hunting ground for at least a month before his first arrest.
Arraignment and Ongoing Investigation
Ahmad is expected to be arraigned Monday in Central Islip, officials said. Police have emphasized that the investigation is still active, as authorities work to determine whether there are additional victims who were photographed or recorded without consent.
Police Urge Public to Come Forward
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information about Ahmad or potential additional incidents to contact the police. Officers stressed that community awareness is crucial in preventing further predatory behavior and bringing potential victims justice.
Community Concerns
The repeated incidents have left shoppers and local residents concerned for safety, particularly at retail locations frequented by children and teens. Authorities remind the public to remain vigilant while shopping and to report suspicious behavior immediately.
Have you or someone you know been affected by incidents like this at local stores? Share your experiences and tips for staying safe in public spaces in the comments below.
