University of Virginia Alerts Students In Wake of Two Sexual Attacks

Jan. 29, 2007 — University of Virginia Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer Patricia Lampkin has encouraged all U.Va. students to take proper  precautions in the wake of reports of two sexual attacks against female U.Va. students early Monday (Jan. 29) morning.

In both instances, the victims were able to escape their attacker. Both women have been offered assistance and support from the University.

Lampkin wrote an e-mail to all students in which she warned them to be aware of their surroundings and to ask others to accompany them rather than walk alone, especially at night. In addition, she reminded students of the availability of SafeRide, a service that offers rides between midnight to 6 a.m.

Charlottesville Police reported that the two attacks occurred in the Wertland Street area. One occurred around 12:30 a.m. in the 1200 block of Wertland Street while the second occurred at about 2:30 a.m. in the area of Wertland and 13th streets.

Although police have indicated that the two incidents could have involved separate assailants, they do note similarities between the descriptions of the attackers.

The first assailant was described as a white male, mid- to late 20s, short dark hair, wearing a blue sweat shirt with hood and light colored pants. The second was described as a white male, early 30s, 5' 10" to 6' tall, brown hair, clean shaven with a medium build. She believes he was wearing a dark button up shirt and dark pants.

The Charlottesville Police ask anyone who may have been in the Corner area Monday night or who can provide information on these attacks to call Crime Stoppers at 434-997-4000.

 

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