News Summary
The NYPD is investigating an incident at a WNBA game where a man threw a sex toy, striking a 12-year-old girl. The girl, who was not hospitalized, reacted with shock. This is part of a troubling trend of similar incidents at WNBA games across the U.S., prompting concerns for safety. A cryptocurrency group has claimed responsibility for these acts as a protest. The league is working to ensure safety for all attendees amid rising disturbances.
Brooklyn — The New York Police Department (NYPD) is actively searching for a man who threw a sex toy during a WNBA game, hitting a 12-year-old girl in the process. This unusual and troubling incident occurred on August 5 at the Barclays Center during the game between the New York Liberty and the Dallas Wings.
The girl was struck in the right leg by the object, resulting in discomfort, but she did not require hospitalization. Witnesses reported that the girl reacted with shock and fear, screaming for about 30 seconds after the toy made contact. The NYPD has since released a photo and video of the suspect, who was seen wearing a “Beavis and Butt-Head” T-shirt and an Ohio State cap.
Context of the Incident
This incident is part of a wider trend of similar occurrences at WNBA games across the United States in recent weeks. The first reported case took place on July 29 during a game between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream in College Park, Georgia. Following this, several other incidents were recorded in Phoenix, Chicago, and Los Angeles, where disturbances led to the arrest of two men in connection with events in Georgia and Phoenix.
A spokesperson for the WNBA stated that the safety of all attendees in the arenas is a top priority. The league is working closely with law enforcement to take appropriate actions against those responsible for these incidents. The growing number of such disturbances has raised serious concerns among players and officials about safety protocols and the respectability of the league.
Motivation Behind the Actions
Creators of a cryptocurrency meme coin have claimed responsibility for throwing sex toys at multiple games. They assert that their actions were intended as a protest against what they describe as a “toxic” environment in the cryptocurrency space. This explanation has drawn criticism from players and coaches within the league, who have condemned these acts as dangerous and disrespectful, emphasizing that such behavior undermines the integrity of women’s sports.
Concerns about security have been voiced by players, including Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve, who highlighted the ongoing sexualization of women and how it negatively impacts women’s sports. Liberty forward Isabelle Harrison also called for enhanced security measures in arenas to prevent objects from being thrown onto the court, stressing the potential dangers involved.
Ongoing Investigation
The NYPD continues to investigate the series of incidents as they strive to identify the individuals responsible. These events have prompted a wider dialogue about safety and respect within the league, sparking apprehension among players and spectators alike. The ongoing nature of these disturbances poses a significant challenge to the WNBA as it works to create a safe environment for fans and athletes throughout the season.
As the NYPD and WNBA strive for effective resolutions, the situation remains critical. The emphasis on safety and respect at sporting events highlights the need for substantive action to ensure that spectators and players feel secure and valued at all games.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Cryptocurrency Group Sparks Controversy at WNBA Games
Disturbing Trend of Objects Thrown at WNBA Games
Neon Green Sex Toy Disrupts WNBA Game Amid Safety Concerns
New York City’s Business Leaders Shift Support to Mayor Adams
Additional Resources
- NBC News
- Wikipedia: Women’s National Basketball Association
- NBC Philadelphia
- Google Search: WNBA security incidents
- Fox 5 NY
- Google Scholar: WNBA player security
- ABC 7 NY
- Encyclopedia Britannica: WNBA history
- PIX11
- Google News: 12 year old girl struck toy WNBA
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
