Sexual assault attempted on East Campus

Police are now investigating an attempted sexual assault that occurred last night on East Campus.

Shortly after 8 p.m., University of Colorado Police were alerted of a potential sexual assault that had taken place on East Campus.

The CU news release states that an employee at 3100 Marine St. had just finished locking the east doors of the building around 8 p.m. when she was approached by a male unknown to her.

After a short conversation, the male grabbed her as she tried to leave. Kicking the male as he shoved her to the ground and attempted to take off her pants, she was able to detach herself from him and run away.

Cmdr. Tim McGraw of the CU-Boulder police department said that the victim acted impressively in the situation.

“I want to state upfront that the victim isn’t supposed to be blamed for what happened, it is never okay to be attacked,” McGraw said. “This was an employee who was leaving by those doors. In this particular instance there was nothing she could have done to avoid the confrontation but she acted admirably in voiding off the assailant.”

McGraw said an event like this has not occurred for some time.

“This type of event has not happened in recent memory, I have not got a clue as to which campus is safer,” McGraw said. “I don’t think it’s any more or less likely.”

The alleged attacker is described as a white male with age and build unknown. He was “wearing a ‘puffy’ black coat, and an unknown colored hat, described as a beanie-type knit hat,” according to the CUPD news release.

McGraw said he thinks this man could face multiple charges as the investigation continues.

“He could face criminal attempt at sexual assault, possible assault or harassment, really a whole list of things,” McGraw said.

After searching the area of the alleged assault, CUPD has yet to locate this man. E-mails have been sent out to all CU student and staff notifying the campus of the event.

As the supposed attacker is yet to be located, McGraw offers a few words of advice for general safety.

“You must be highly aware of your surroundings,” McGraw said. “Try to stay in lighted areas and be with a buddy. If things just don’t feel right, go to a place of presumed safety and use nightride, those resources that are available.”

Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Rachel Hersch at [email protected].