She gave the following description on her assailant: black male, 6 feet - 2 inches tall, 300 + pounds, approximately 30 years of age, bald head, tattoo of a cross on his left forearm, wearing blue jeans and a short sleeve shirt. The suspect fled the area on foot, through back yards towards West Street.
The incident was reported to the Worcester Police Department and there is enough evidence to corroborate the woman's story. It is not known if a weapon was used during the attack.
The fact that this occurred in broad daylight is shocking and WPI Police Chief Hanlon gives the following advice. "Students should travel in groups and stay in well traveled areas, sometimes it is a good idea not to take the shortest route to your destination."
Another reminder is that SNaP and WPI Police are available to all students, regardless of their location on or off campus. Both of these services have become more and more popular in the past few years, as 3 years ago approximately 250 escorts were completed per year and currently the number is closer to 2000. As it is not know if the suspect will act again it is advisable to be aware of your surroundings and to know the location of the emergency phones on campus. One should also try to stay in open areas and away from shrubs, as attackers often repeat a method of operation.
Chief Hanlon also pointed out that there are personal alarms available for approximately $12 to $20 that have a panic button and they make a lot of noise which gets attention. Whistles are also a good idea to carry in case of an emergency. One should also be careful to secure their living area, whether it is the dorm or an off-campus apartment.
In response to the attack, both WPD and WPI Police have stepped up their patrols in and around the campus area. The police are asking that everyone be aware of this crime of opportunity and to alter their behaviors in such a way that it will not happen again.
The escort service can be accessed by calling 831-5433 or 5270 and suspicious persons, vehicles or activity should be reported to the police by calling WPD at 911 or WPI Police at 831-5433. If you have any information concerning this crime, you are requested to contact the WPD Detective Bureau (799-8651) and confidentiality is assured.
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