A shocking incident unfolded in a Manhattan court as prosecutors alleged that a male Columbia graduate student sexually assaulted a female classmate inside the building where they both reside. The accused, Francois Barre, a 30-year-old from France, allegedly waited outside the victim's Morningside Drive building on Thursday afternoon and offered to help her carry groceries up to her apartment, according to prosecutors.

As the victim entered the building, Barre reportedly kissed her forcefully on the back of her neck and backed her against a wall, preventing her from moving. Assistant District Attorney Meera Patel revealed during Barre's arraignment that he proceeded to touch her inappropriately, repeatedly placing his hand up her dress and grabbing her buttocks. Patel also stated that Barre put his hand down the top of her dress, groping her breast.

In a horrifying turn of events, the victim allegedly tried to push him away, but Barre persisted and made disturbing statements, reportedly telling her, "I know you want this. You taste good," according to the criminal complaint.

Barre's actions were captured on a security camera, which showed him entering and leaving the building with the victim. As soon as the incident occurred, the victim promptly reported the assault to Columbia University Safety, who in turn contacted authorities.

Arrested outside the building, Barre now faces charges of sexual assault and forcible touching. The prosecution requested an order of protection for the victim and bail set at $20,000. Barre's defense attorney, Amanda Barfield, claimed that he had recently completed his Masters degree in international relations at Columbia and would be moving out of the building soon. Barfield stated that her client had surrendered his French passport and requested supervised release.

During the court hearing, it was revealed that the victim expressed extreme fear of Barre and was apprehensive about seeing him in the building where they both reside on the same floor. Judge Robert Mandelbaum granted supervised release, but also approved the prosecution's request for an order of protection, barring Barre from any contact with the victim except for necessary interactions related to moving out.

As Barre left the courtroom, he was visibly emotional and declined to comment on the charges. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing and prosecuting cases of sexual assault to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals within the community.

Stay tuned as the legal proceedings continue in this disturbing case.