A serial rapist received an effective life sentence after attacking and strangling an 81-year-old woman in Manhattan. This brave survivor, now 83, described her “miraculous” survival during a court appearance where she directly addressed the perpetrator.
Avonlong, a 79-year-old repeat offender, has been sentenced to 32 years in prison for the brutal assault. This incident took place nearly two years ago, where he violently assaulted the victim in her apartment for over an hour.
In a powerful victim impact statement, the survivor, surrounded by family, urged the judges to impose a lengthy sentence. “He’s never going to hurt anyone again,” she stated, expressing her relief that Avonlong would no longer have the freedom to harm others.
The assault occurred in October 2021 when the victim was forced to undress and lie on her bed before the attack began. After the horrific incident, he bound her wrists with a phone charger cord, warning her against calling for help until he had enough time to escape. Remarkably, he left but soon returned to strangle her until she lost consciousness.
“I was treated like a vulnerable animal by a man who revealed himself to be a vicious predator,” she said. “From beginning to end, I was terrified. I felt I had to comply with whatever he demanded to survive.” She poignantly added, “My survival is a miracle.”
Long’s criminal history dates back to the late 1960s, with numerous sexual assault convictions. His sentences often led to early releases, only for him to re-offend, which continued until 2015. He was found guilty of multiple charges this time, including robbery and sexual abuse.
The victim spent two weeks in the hospital recovering from the physical trauma, stating she experienced immense pain. Yet, she expressed a message of forgiveness, urging Long to reflect on his actions. “Don’t forget to forgive,” she advised, emphasizing compassion even in her suffering.
Meanwhile, Long seemed preoccupied with his own distress, claiming the trial was difficult for him. “I really feel sorry for the victim,” he said, as if to garner sympathy. Judge Juan Merchant responded sternly, labeling him as “undoubtedly the most prolific rapist this court has ever seen” and criticizing his self-centered remarks. He pointed out that Long’s actions were meant to inflict severe trauma.
District Attorney Alvin Bragg expressed hope that the lengthy sentence would ensure Avonlong remains imprisoned until well beyond the age of 100, serving as a measure of justice for the victim. “The defendant horrifically abused an innocent 81-year-old woman, and the strength of the survivor’s truth was a testament during the trial,” he remarked.
