"This Guy Is Out There": Surveillance Reveals Harassment Suspect's Cafe Encounter

New Surveillance Video Reveals Alleged Harassment Incident at Rochester Cafe

Newly released surveillance footage has shed light on an alleged incident involving a man who, according to authorities, was forced to leave a Rochester cafe after allegedly harassing and following an employee inside. The incident occurred at Cafe Sasso on Park Avenue, and the man involved is now facing multiple charges.

Oleksandr Levytskyy, a 29-year-old resident of Irondequoit, has been charged with first- and second-degree harassment, as well as trespassing. He was released from Monroe County Jail following his arraignment on Tuesday evening. This latest accusation comes just weeks after he was charged in Pittsford for a similar offense, where he allegedly followed and harassed a woman along the Erie Canal trail.

Community Concerns and Law Enforcement Response

Rochester Police Department (RPD) Captain Greg Bello expressed frustration over the repeated incidents involving Levytskyy. “It’s certainly frustrating when you have a repeat offender, you can see he’s been arrested twice now within a month for very similar and concerning behavior, and at this point, there’s very little to nothing that can be done in the court process,” Bello said.

The owner of Cafe Sasso shared details about the incident with local news outlets. She confirmed that the event took place at her establishment and involved several employees. Surveillance footage shows the man entering the cafe, holding a plastic bag and a soda bottle. As he rounds the corner out of the camera's view, the owner claims he entered the restroom and locked himself inside.

In a second video, the man is seen gathering his belongings in the restroom while baristas attempt to guide him toward the side door. One of the male baristas speaks to the man as he exits, points at the door, and follows behind until reaching the doorway. According to the owner, Levytskyy intentionally splashed soda on the barista during this interaction.

Calls for Legislative Change

Community leaders are urging for broader changes in the state’s criminal justice system following these incidents. Pittsford Town Supervisor Bill Smith supports the N.Y. Senate Bill S2282A, known as the Pretrial Risk Overview for Threat Evaluation, Custody and Treatment (PROTECT) Act. If passed, this bill would expand the ability of law enforcement to detain repeat offenders while they await trial.

“The problem is caused by bad policies at the state level,” Smith said. “New York’s laws from the perspectives of victims and potential victims are the most cruel and inhumane when it comes to criminal law.”

The PROTECT Act is currently under review by the State Senate’s Codes Committee. Advocates hope the legislation will provide more tools for law enforcement to protect the public from individuals like Levytskyy.

Increased Security and Community Safety Measures

In response to growing concerns, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) has intensified its efforts to ensure public safety. They are working closely with the Rochester Police Department, the District Attorney’s Office, and mental health professionals following Levytskyy’s release.

Deputies are increasing security in key areas, using video surveillance, UTVs, bike and mounted patrols. MCSO says investigators are actively reviewing any potential violations of the law—both past and present—and local police agencies have been asked to enforce a zero-tolerance policy.

The office has also reached out to the Canal Authority for assistance and plans to monitor Levytskyy while he is in public. Officials are working to connect him with long-term support services in hopes of preventing future incidents.

Public Awareness and Reporting Suspicious Activity

Law enforcement officials urge the public to remain vigilant. “We want people to be aware, whether it’s running groups that are out there or people out on their morning walks. This guy is out there and if you see him, go in the other direction, take appropriate safety measures and call 911,” Bello said.

Anyone with information about suspicious activity is encouraged to contact emergency services immediately. The community remains on high alert as authorities work to address the ongoing concerns surrounding this case.