CRIME, POLICE + COURTS

Utah State University issues sexual assault alert

LOGAN, Utah — Utah State University issued a “code blue” alert on Thursday after an incident of sexual assault was reported near the Logan campus.

The university indicated in a release that a sexual assault was reported on September 5 to campus security authorities.

“One of our campus support services received a report from a third party that there was a sexual assault and that there were some indications that it involved drugs,” explains Utah State University Director of Crisis Communications and Issues Management, Amanda DeRito.

According to the report, an assault took place on August 31 at a fraternity house. The identity of the suspect is not known.

DeRito says this is an important reminder to stay alert in social situations.

“It’s always smart to be aware of your surroundings and to trust your instincts,” she says. “If you feel unsafe in a situation definitely respond to that.”

Additionally, the university provided some specific instruction to follow.

“Making sure that you have your hand on your drink at all times, you don’t leave your drink unattended,” says DeRito. “And that you’re keeping an eye out on other people around you.”

She adds that tip remains consistent for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Other reminders provided by the university include:

1. Don’t stand by if someone is speaking or behaving in a disrespectful or inappropriate way. Speak up or seek assistance from police or USU employees. Learn more about becoming an Upstander and request an Upstanding bystander intervention training at upstander.usu.edu.
2. Make sure you understand consent and always receive it before engaging in sexual activity. Learn more at www.consent.usu.edu.
3. Trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe on campus, contact USU Police at 435-797-1939 or dial 911. USU police officers provide safety escorts across campus; please allow 20-30 minutes for an officer to arrive.
4. If you’ve been sexually assaulted, there are on- and off-campus resources ready to help you. You may report the incident to the police or file a Title IX report. If you are not ready to report to police or to the university through the Title IX Coordinator, visit with a confidential advocate or counselor. Learn more about these resources at sexualassault.usu.edu.

Anyone with knowledge about the crime should contact USU Police by phone at 435-797-1939 or in person at 800 E. 1250 N.