TW: Sexual Assault
On Oct. 31, American University students and parents received an email from Phil Morse, AVP of University Police and Emergency Services, that there was a break-in in two dorm rooms at Leonard Hall.Â
One of the students involved in the incident reported being sexually assaulted. All four of the students involved in the case have been assisted with necessary campus services, according to the email.
The suspect entered the dorms around 2 a.m. Monday morning without permission or authorization. Staff from Housing and Residence Life as well as AUPD responded to the scene.Â
AUPD is working with the DC Metropolitan Police departments sex crime unit to investigate the ongoing case. They plan to use surveillance footage from Leonard, obtain witness statements and collect physical evidence.
The suspect is described as a “tall, slender, white male with brown hair, late teens/early 20s and approximately 6 feet tall.”Any information on the suspect should be reported immediately.
Following the incident, AUPD plans to increase security measures in the north side residence halls and add additional housing staff in Leonard Hall. There will also be additional front desk assistance in Hughes, Leonard and McDowell Halls.Â
It is advised students continue tapping their AUIDs and showing them to staff, and to “not admit anyone unless they are your guest.” Students are also encouraged to lock their doors.
Students are urged to use the following resources: the 24-hour AU ProtoCall line at 202-885-7979 or the Center for Well-Being Programs at 202-885-3500. Students living in the residence halls can reach the community director on call at their hall’s front desk.