Woman Sexually Assaulted On U-M Campus, Police Searching For Suspect
ANN ARBOR (WWJ) - University of Michigan police are asking for the public's help in finding a man accused of sexually assaulting a woman on campus.
Police say the victim was walking early Sunday morning from South University through the arch when a man pushed her from behind, told her to be quiet, and attempted to assault her.
Officials say the suspect fled when he heard other people coming.
The suspect is described as a black man about 35-years-old, six feet, thin build, wearing a black baseball cap, blue sweatshirt, jeans and carrying a backpack.
Anyone with information is asked to call U-M police at (734) 763-1131 or the Confidential Tip Line (800) 863-1355.
Police include this reminder:
•Sexual assault is any sexual activity that occurs in the absence of consent.
•Most perpetrators assault someone they know. Sexual assault occurs in all communities and people of all genders can be survivors.
•Responsibility lies with the perpetrator, not the survivor - no one deserves, asks for, or provokes sexual assault.
•Sexual assault can include sexual activity with someone whose judgment is impaired by alcohol and drugs, whether ingested voluntarily or unknowingly. Alcohol often is used by perpetrators to facilitate sexual assaults.
•U of M's Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities , Sexual Assault Policy, and Michigan law prohibit sexual assault.
•If you would like more information or resources regarding sexual assault, visit SAPAC's website.
•Although the survivor is never at fault, prioritizing one's personal safety is a good idea. Risk of attack by a stranger may be reduced by:
◦Being aware of your surroundings and looking assertive
◦Walking with a friend or co-worker in well-lit areas
◦Trusting your intuition - if a particular situation makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, choose an alternative
◦Keeping rooms locked at all times
◦Utilizing campus transportation resources
•If you feel threatened on campus, look for a blue light emergency phone or call 9-1-1 from any phone (no coins needed for 9-1-1 calls).
