A 32-year-old repeat offender, William Livingston, has been charged in connection with multiple violent attacks on women in Chicago, including an incident where he punched a mother of 11, leaving her with severe facial injuries and a concussion.
The attack occurred on August 19 when 56-year-old Kathleen Miles was walking along West Washington Avenue with a coworker. Livingston, described as a “so-called serial puncher,” struck Miles with such force that the blow knocked her to the ground, according to police. Miles recounted the encounter, noting that Livingston’s eyes showed “pure hate” and “anger.”
Livingston faces charges including two felony counts of aggravated battery/public place, one felony count of aggravated battery/great bodily harm, and a misdemeanor count of reckless conduct/bodily harm. Police reported he was arrested on the same day as the attack, with Cook County Jail records indicating he has remained in custody since August 21.
Livingston’s history includes at least 20 arrests dating back to 2012, with authorities noting he often reappears after being released. On June 12, police identified him as the attacker who struck two women— a 40-year-old and a 29-year-old—in the 2700 block of North Clark Street. One victim, Anne Kurze, described the attack as “so much worse” than what occurred, noting that Livingston’s strength and aggression made him “scary.”
The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office directly indicted Livingston, with evidence presented to a grand jury. Police said Livingston was arrested again this week, with Miles expressing hope that he would be prevented from further attacks. She noted the trauma of the August incident still lingers daily, citing fear of being hurt.
Livingston’s history includes multiple arrests for aggravated assault and battery, including a 2022 incident where he struck multiple women in quick succession. A DePaul University student, Cami Blechschmidt, described the attack as involving a punch to her face, with Livingston showing “pure hate” in his eyes.
Police said Livingston was arrested on February 8, 2022, after striking multiple female victims, with charges including four felony counts of aggravated battery/public place and two attempted robbery counts. The legal consequences for his actions continue to unfold as authorities pursue accountability.
