March 7, 2011
From: Vice President and Dean of Students Jeff Stocco
To: Gustavus students, faculty, and staff
I write with an update on the assaults reported on our campus over the weekend. As we have already communicated, the first incident was reported to have occurred near the Melva Lind Interpretive Center at about 1:30 a.m. Saturday, March 5, 2011. The second incident occurred near the Alfred Nobel Hall of Science on Sunday night, March 6, at about 8:30 p.m. These matters are being actively investigated by the St. Peter Police Department.
Authorities believe these incidents were attempted sexual assaults. Please know that local law enforcement is following up on all leads on this investigation. If you have any information that you believe would assist the investigation please call the St. Peter Police at 507-931-1550.
Campus Safety has deployed increased personnel to assist in heightened patrolling on campus. As you know, several services and processes are in place to address campus security, including a Campus SafeRide escort program between 6 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. daily, as well as on-call 24 hour safety officer escorts, 24-7 locked residential halls, a SART (Sexual Assault Response Team), and several educational awareness programs.
The following are important tips to keep in mind at all hours of the day and night:
-Travel in groups.
-Lock doors behind you.
-Don’t prop doors open.
-Be aware of your surroundings.
-Be aware that you can be easily distracted by headphones or cell phones.
Report any suspicious activity to Campus Safety at x8888.
Lastly, a reminder that there will be a campus forum at 5 p.m. today in Alumni Hall. This will be your opportunity to hear updates and ask questions. We hope to see you there.