Last evening (September 24) a student reported an alleged armed sexual assault that happened on campus earlier in the week. An investigation is underway and is ongoing. The investigation is being undertaken jointly by Worcester State University Police, Massachusetts State Police and the State Police Detectives assigned to the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office.
The University is keeping the campus informed and updated, and we will continue to do so. An advisory went out to all students and to all faculty and staff this morning, and we notified media outlets. University Police has initiated extra uniformed patrols on campus until further notice.
The survivor is being supported by University Counseling Services. Counseling has also been made available to the University community as needed.
At this time, there is no description of the assailant. We have had no additional reports of sexual assault since the time of this alleged assault. We are asking anyone who has information about this incident or who witnesses suspicious activity to contact University Police at 508-929-8911 immediately.
As this is an ongoing investigation, we are bound by the rape shield laws of the Commonwealth in releasing details related to the assault as well as details that could jeopardize the investigation.
Worcester State University follows the current Title IX guidelines. Worcester State students receive sexual assault education through a variety of programs.
Below is the advisory that was sent to campus community earlier today:
CAMPUS ADVISORY – 09/25/2014
The Worcester State University Police have received information of an alleged armed sexual assault that occurred on Campus earlier this week and was reported last night. Information provided indicates the survivor involved is a Worcester State University student and the alleged perpetrator is unknown. University Police are currently investigating. The weapon used was a silver knife.
ALL MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY SHOULD:
- Report suspicious activity to the University Police (508-929-8911) in a timely fashion
- Options for assistance are available through Counseling services (508-929-8072) and University Police (508-929-8911/8044)
On Campus Resources
- University Police: 508-929-8911 24 hours a day
- Counseling Services: 508-929-8072 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
Off Campus Resources
- Rape Crisis Center Hotline: 1-800-870-5905
- RAINN.org (Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network)
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