RICHMOND, Va. – A student at Virginia Commonwealth University reported to police that they were sexually assaulted over the weekend.
The incident was reported two days after it the assault occurred, according to police.
The incident took place on Sept. 18, 2016, in the early morning hours in an on-campus residential housing facility.
The suspect was known to the survivor, as is statistically the case in approximately 75 percent of rapes.
There were also five reported sexual assaults on or near campus during the first few of weeks of class.
One was reported at a residence across from the Midtown Kroger grocery store, one on South Morris Street, one in the 900 block of West Grace Street and one reported at the Cabaniss residence hall on the VCU medical campus. A man was also wanted for forcefully grabbing a student’s buttocks as he walked past her at the University Student Commons.
According to alerts sent out by VCU Police about the alleged sexual assaults, the survivors recently met the suspects in all three cases.
Police said that if a person is ever in a situation where they are unsure or scared, to call VCU Police (828-1234) immediately. Read more reminders about sexual assault, from police, here.
As VCU students move in for the start of a new academic year, administrators are prioritizing safety after a spike in crime near the Monroe Park Campus this summer.
Students are encouraged to download the LiveSafe mobile safety application on iOS and Android smart phones. The app alerts police when a tip comes in so they can respond quickly. Students also have 24-hour access to campus phones for emergency calls.
