Cookie Monster arrested in Times Square for allegedly groping teenager

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This is the second time we’ve covered a story on Cookie Monster this week, but this one isn’t as adorable as his skit with Taraji Henson on SNL.

On Sunday, a man dressed as Cookie Monster was arrested in Midtown after allegedly groping a 16-year-old tourist.

According to an NYPD spokesperson, the teen was walking with her tour group outside Toys ‘R’ Us around 5:30 p.m. when 48-year-old Ranulfo Perez, dressed as Cookie Monster, “pulled the victim into a hug and forcibly touched her breasts.” Perez was arrested at the scene and charged with forcible touching in a manner injurious to a child less than 17 as well as second degree harassment.

It appears that this isn’t an isolated incident.

According to The Gothamist,

Over 18 costumed characters were arrested in 2014. And in 2013, a different man dressed as Cookie Monster was arrested for allegedly shoving a toddler.

The proliferation of costumed characters in Times Square has emboldened some City Councilmembers to push for legislation regulating them. The bill’s sponsor, Bronx Councilmember Andy King, said at a hearing in November, “Strawberry Shortcake didn’t get the proper tip she wanted, she ripped off her own head and started to berate her father and her family. In the mind of a five year old, how do you comprehend a head being snatched off?”

Along with Cookie Monster and Strawberry Shortcake, at least two Elmos, a pair of Iron Men, and several Spider-Men have also been arrested for harassment.

There’s now push from some city council members to require the costumed entertainers to be regulated and pay a registration fee. Critics of the bill say this measure may be unconstitutional, because wearing a costume is a form of First Amendment expression.

News coverage below.